Christmas Craft & Home Show returns to Marmion

The annual Marmion Christmas Craft & Home Show returned for the 24th year at Marmion Academy in Aurora on Saturday. The show, which is hosted by the Marmion Alumni Association, featured 158 crafters and 21 vendors.

The academy's director of special events, Maria Thornton, said shopper turnout was strong and she estimated a few thousand people had already been through the doors within the first few hours.

"We had a line out the door and wrapped around (the building) at exactly nine this morning." Shoppers with bagfuls of goods on their arms buzzed by as she said, "And as you can see, it hasn't stopped! It's been great."

This year's show featured handmade Christmas items, edible delicacies, dog treats, seasonal home decorations and more in a 30,000-square-foot shopping area.

Jeri Covelli, of North Aurora, said she was shopping for "unique gifts you can't pick up at a store." She was with her mother, Joyce Self, also of North Aurora, who chimed in with a chuckle that there were "too many things I see that I'd like to get."

The show continues 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday at Marmion Academy, 1000 Butterfield Road, Aurora. Admission is $4 for ages 12 and older. On Sunday, Santa Claus will visit with families from noon until 2 p.m.