Whole-Family Event Features Hands-On Crafting, Local Artisans, Live Entertainment, and Seasonal Delights
As the season of giving approaches, Mountain Laurel Waldorf School invites the community to rediscover the magic of handmade gifts at the beloved Winter Gift Making Fair, returning Sunday, December 7, 2025 for a day of creativity, connection, and celebration.
“What a joyous way to spend the day with my family!” exclaimed one of last year’s attendees. “My children were delighted at being able to roam in and out of various crafting rooms, discover tiny treasures and watch an enchanting puppet show. And I loved the variety of artisanal items. We left with unique holiday gifts for everyone we know! We’re already looking forward to coming back next year.”
This enchanting whole-family event transforms the school into a winter wonderland where visitors can both create and discover one-of-a-kind treasures for the holiday season.
Create Beautiful Handmade Gifts
Step into our crafting workshops and let your creativity flow! Guests of all ages can handcraft:
- Luminous beeswax candles that fill homes with warm, natural light and the sweet scent of honey
- Translucent window stars that catch the winter sun and cast rainbow patterns across your walls
- Fragrant evergreen wreaths adorned with natural materials gathered from our local landscape
- Hand-dipped pomanders studded with cloves, filling your home with the essence of the season
- Delicate ornaments to treasure for years to come
- Handcrafted menorahs perfect for Hanukkah celebrations
“There’s something truly special about giving a gift you’ve made with your own hands,” shares event organizer and 4th grade parent Amy Hannes. “My daughter is so proud to give handcrafted gifts to her friends and grandparents. It’s about more than the object – it’s about the love and intention woven into each creation.”
Discover Local Artisan Treasures
Stroll through our artisan marketplace featuring exceptional handcrafted items from talented local makers and Mountain Laurel students. This year’s vendor offerings include:
- Hand-thrown ceramics and pottery including functional pieces (mugs, candlesticks, match strikers) and decorative items
- Naturally dyed, one-of-a-kind textiles and handmade clothing crafted with sustainable practices
- Needle-felted quiet toys, peg dolls, and imaginative play items
- Traditional handcrafted brooms
- Wooden treasures including spoons, cutting boards, candle holders, and ornaments
- Artisan jewelry ranging from elaborate beaded designs to simple pieces for children
- Herbal body care featuring botanical oils, salves, and bath bombs
- Nature-inspired patches and prints with meaningful messages
- And many more handcrafted gifts and décor!
Entertainment for All Ages
The fair comes alive with joyful entertainment throughout the day:
- Star Penny Puppetry presents an enchanting show that captivates children and adults alike
- Live musical performances featuring local musicians
- Community sing-along where voices unite in celebration
- Magical moments around every corner as children explore the transformed school spaces
Savor the Season
Warm your heart and belly with delicious seasonal fare:
- Outdoor BBQ featuring hearty winter favorites
- Roasted chestnuts prepared over an open fire
- Homemade desserts baked with love by our school community
- Steaming hot apple cider and other warming beverages
- Additional sweet and savory treats
Supporting Our School, Strengthening Our Community
“This fair is more than an event—it’s a celebration of what makes our community special,” notes Patricia Dewitte-Kuyl, Head Administrator. “Every candle dipped, every ornament purchased, every song sung together strengthens the bonds between us and supports our school’s mission of nurturing the whole child through creative, experiential learning.”
Proceeds from the Winter Gift Making Fair support Mountain Laurel Waldorf School’s educational programs, helping to provide a rich, arts-integrated curriculum for students.
Event Details
What: Winter Gift Making Fair
When: Sunday, December 7, 2025, 11am – 4pm
Where: Mountain Laurel Waldorf School, 16 S Chestnut Street, New Paltz, NY 12561
Admission: Admission to the Fair and the Vendors is free. Tickets for craft activities can be purchased in advance (at a discount!) online at mountainlaurel.org/winterfair or day-of at the event.
Whether you’re seeking the perfect gift, looking for a meaningful family outing, or simply want to soak in the warmth of community spirit, the Winter Gift Making Fair offers something for everyone. Create handmade treasures in our craft rooms, discover the artistry of local makers, and fill your afternoon with puppet magic, joyful music, and the deep satisfaction of gifts shaped by loving hands.