If it’s December in Ancram, it’s Winterfest. The annual event returns for its sixth year on Saturday, Dec. 6, from 1 to 5 p.m. at the Ancram Town Hall and across the street at the Fulton & Forbes wine and spirits shop.
“It’s about community building. It’s the best part of having my shop here,” said Fulton & Forbes owner Rachel Merriam. “For a couple of years, as my place was being planned and built, I was happy just to volunteer with Winterfest.
This year, Merriam will host a happy hour from 2 to 5 p.m., with complimentary wine and cocktails. As in years past, Ancram Fire Department volunteers will serve burgers, and more than 20 additional volunteers will offer mulled cider.
The event is coordinated by Ancram residents Steve Olyha, Chris McCoy, and Don Nienas. Winterfest will also include a traditional sing-along with folk-musician Mark Rust, a raffle of baskets and goods from area shops and artisans, and an appearance by Santa at 4:30 p.m. Kids of all ages can decorate and eat cookies throughout the afternoon.
A highlight each year is the mix of Hudson Valley vendor booths, many offering holiday specials. Bob Bachler, an Ancram artist whose studio is in the former Simon’s General Store, returns with pottery and ceramics. “I get to meet and greet new and old friends,” said Bachler. “Being at Winterfest is being a part of the community.”
A new vendor this year is Berkshire Holiday Gnomes. “I hang hanging, standing, and magnetic gnomes, who have every holiday covered,” said gnome-maker Barbara Flach. “My son is a chef and supplies me with leftover corks for their bodies and magical powers.”
Ancram artist Santina Tirone returns with original paintings, prints and cards. “They are predominantly scenes of our local community. I come to Winterfest because it brings me joy to be a part of Ancram and because I care about everyone who lives here.”
“Ancram has always held a special place in my heart,” added local author Maryann Barto. “I grew up on Route 82 with my basket-making mom, Elizabeth Proper. Through the book series I’m writing about ‘The Hill,’ I’m sharing the stories of my family and other inhabitants, forgotten history, forgotten secrets.”
Another new vendor is Dona Murray who will offer mostly gluten-free muffins and breads, along with chocolate chip, peanut butter and shortbread cookies and pies.
Photographer Maggie Slater returns with Memories by Maggie. “I will be selling prints and gift certificates for photography sessions. I will also be taking photos on the day of the event; when purchased, I email the photos.”
Also participating for the first time is Maureen Mueller of Westfall Flowers. “This is my first year at Ancram. I’ll be selling potted and waxed amaryllis, paper whites, and wreaths, as well as tooth fairy teddy bears, earrings, and greeting cards. All handmade. I’m looking forward to seeing everyone on Saturday.”