A new twist on an old country fair

Members of the Mice Ladies, from left, Ruth Grasiano, Edna Woodberry, June Gerbracht, Sharon Davis and Thora Heeseler sold this year’s collection of Christmas mice ornaments at the Church of St. Jude Country Fair on Nov. 8.

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A Kid’s Game Area was one of the new additions to the fair this year where 9-year-old Justin Rios enjoyed the many activities including pin the feather on the turkey. He was assisted by church volunteer Susanne Kimball.

Andrew Hackmack/Herald

St. Jude Volunteers, from left, Kathy Gavin, Debbie Smith and Marilyn Zaun, worked the baked good table.

Andrew Hackmack/Herald

Eileen Wulff checked out the candles that Kevin Curran, of American Story Candles, was selling. A portion of profits would go to support veterans’ charities.

Andrew Hackmack/Herald

A farmer’s market with fresh produce was new to the fair.

Andrew Hackmack/Herald

Children from the Sunday school, including Lauren Gomez Nieto, Nina Scanze, Elizabeth Manton and Paige Gomez Nieto, sold their handmade crafts.

Andrew Hackmack/Herald

Lynn Hansen and James Fox had their artwork for sale.

Andrew Hackmack/Herald

In the Kid’s Area, James Kearney got his face painted by volunteer Kristen Giannuzzi.

Andrew Hackmack/Herald

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For 40 years, residents of Wantagh and beyond have had the opportunity to do some early holiday shopping at the Church of St. Jude Country Fair. Last Saturday’s event did not disappoint, as shoppers left with bags full of holiday decorations, gifts, knick knacks and even fresh produce.

The popular Christmas mice ornaments were back. Hundreds of small stuffed mice, dressed in more than a dozen costumes, were again for sale on Nov. 8. They were crafted by a group of parishioners dubbed “The Mice Ladies.”

There were rooms full of used books, toys and household items. The gymnasium featured craft vendors, baked goods and raffles. A farmer’s market outside, safety identification program and children’s game area were among the newest additions to the fair. Also for the first time, the church took credit cards.

The Rev. Christopher Hofer, pastor of the church located on Lufberry Avenue, was pleased with the turnout. “This is my 11th fair and I’ve never seen so many people come through,” he said. “This is a big event.”