Submitted by event organizers.

The ever-popular Solstice Mercantile is back for a compelling third year on Dec. 2 and 3 on Orcas Island. The community-driven local holiday craft fair is once again hosted by Orcas Island Winery, a sprawling outdoor event space and indoor farmhouse winery nestled at the base of Turtleback Mountain. The event will take place inside Orcas Island Winery and within an attached heated weatherproof tent.

Solstice Mercantile was created out of a desire to create, champion and celebrate light and beauty during the depth of the pandemic.

According to event organizers, last year’s attendance exceeded 850 visitors over two days. This year’s number of vendors is expected to be larger than last year featuring some of San Juan Islands’ noteworthy exhibitors including NightShade Hat Co, Ula Botanic, Laura Yeats Wood Turner, Tabitha Rose, Annie Burke, vintage clothiers, West Beach Farm, Morning Star Farm, and many new vendors.

Organizers have thoughtfully created a diverse yet intentional event format that showcases a range of local artisans and makers showcasing handmade crafts, designs, art, and a range of specialty food and beverage vendors among other creative displays. The food purveyor lineup this year is of particular note with Botanical Awakenings’ nourishing warm foods and beverages, Houlme’s wood- fired pizza oven, Farm to Ferry’s Decadent offerings and savory, hearty food from Chef Josh Hernandez (formerly of Monti).

Entrance to the event is free but event organizers are accepting donations to help cover basic start-up and operational costs in an effort to meet community demand and continue this well-loved holiday shopping fair. The event runs from noon to 5 p.m. on both Saturday and Sunday. The address to Orcas Island Winery is 2371 Crow Valley Road. On-site parking will be available.

For more information about the event visit www.thesolsticemercantile.com.