Alternative Sources for Holiday Gifts

The end of this week will see the beginning of the orgy of holiday gift shopping. This year, as always, Gossips enjoins readers to eschew the malls and shop right here in Hudson. On Warren Street and beyond, there are wonderful sources of holiday gifts, and the days after Thanksgiving are particularly bountiful.

This weekend is the second annual Basilica Farm & Flea, the extraordinary market presented in collaboration with Hudson River Exhange. The event opens with Black Friday Soiree, from 5 to 9 p,m. Enjoy cocktails by Lady Jayne's Alchemy and The Hudson Standard and food tastings from various local venues. The soiree is also an opportunity to preview the wares offered by more than sixty vendors.

If you are interested in crafting your gifts, the Art School of Columbia County offers "Make It, Don't Buy It" workshops on Friday, November 28, and Saturday, November 29. Each day from noon to 4 p.m., two-hour sessions will be held in acrylics, watercolor, beading, collage, and small book making. Families are welcome, and projects for younger children are offered. 

The workshops take place at the Old Schoolhouse, 1198 Route 21C in Harlemville, next to the Hawthorne Valley Farm Store. Check the Art School website to learn more about the workshops and to preregister.
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