IRVINGTON — People from all over Central Indiana make it a tradition to visit the Irvington Historical Society’s annual Holiday Fair, which will take place on Friday and Saturday, Nov. 22 and 23, at the Bona Thompson Memorial Center, 5350 University Ave. The Friday Night Preview runs from 5-9 p.m. and there is a $5 admission charge, which includes hors d’oeuvres by Mia’s Specialties (formerly Dufour’s in Irvington). On Saturday, the doors will be open from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and admission is free. A cash lunch will be available by Mia’s. Parking is available in a large lot just north of the building.
This year’s show features lots of handcrafted, locally made gift ideas for everyone on the shopping list. Over 25 vendors will be on hand with handcrafted jewelry, knitware, soaps, candles, prints and original paintings, vintage items, holiday ornaments, ceramics, household goods, and much more. The vendors are carefully selected and even if you have visited the fair before, you are certain to find new favorites every year.
For the bookworm on your list, check out the books on local history offered by the Historical Society. Irvington in 1910 by local historian William Gulde, plus books about D.C. Stephenson and the infamous trial that brought down the KKK in Indiana will be available for purchase. Several local authors will be on hand to sign their books — they make great gifts!
Two other shows are going on in Irvington at the same time. The Annual Benton House Holiday Bazaar will be held at the Benton House, 312 S. Downey (just south of the Bona Thompson Center) on Friday from 5-8 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. On Saturday from noon-3 p.m., Santa will be coming to the Benton House so all the good little boys and girls can line up with their wish list and for photos! The Bazaar features handcrafted items and much more in the historic home. The annual Indy Cloth Dollmakers will also have a show and sale on Saturday from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. at the Irvington United Methodist Church, 30 N. Audubon Rd. Stop by to see their beautiful and unique handcrafted dolls.
