Find that early holiday gift at Lombard Christmas Mart

The countdown to Christmas already is on and people ready to get a jump start on holiday shopping might find just what they're looking for next weekend at the Lombard Christmas Mart.

Carol Anderson, a parishioner at St. John's Lutheran Church and organizer for the event, said representatives from five churches in downtown Lombard came together six years ago to create the Christmas Mart, after noticing they were all hosting craft sales around the same time.

Now, hundreds of shoppers come out on one day to walk along Maple Street and browse offerings from more than 75 local crafters selling jewelry, crochet pieces, wood carvings, soap, candy, art and other unique, handmade items.

The churches will be selling food as well, with proceeds going toward their ministries.

The event, which runs from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 7, is free and features a "passport" that shoppers can pick up at any location and get stamped at every stop.

Anyone who gets at least six stamps will be entered in a raffle to win prizes from local businesses, including the Westin, Vino Cellar and several hair salons.

The raffle drawing will take place at 2 p.m. at the Helen Plum Library, but winners do not need to be present.

For the first time, Calvary Episcopal Church at 105 W. Maple St. is taking part in the event by offering an art bazaar. Other churches participating, from east to west, include:

• Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 114 S. Elizabeth St.

• St. John's Lutheran Church, 2155 Lincoln St.

• Maple Street Chapel and First Church of Lombard, 220 S. Main St.

• Lombard Bible Church, 111 S. Park Ave.

• First United Methodist Church, 155 S. Main St.

Aside from the churches, shoppers also can get stamps at the Helen Plum Library, where they can buy books and learn about new community offerings, including the Prairie Food Co-Op; the Lombard Historical Society, where they can take a tour of the Victorian Cottage and purchase Lombard gift items; and the Lombard Community Senior Center.

"You get a chance to mix a little bit of history, shopping and food," Anderson said. "It's just a fun day."

All the locations are in the vicinity of Maple Street, between Brewster Avenue and Charlotte Street, and within walking distance of each another. Parking is free and available at every church, so if the weather is bad, shoppers have the option to drive to each location instead, Anderson said.

Although the event includes some Christmas items, many are not related to the holidays. Anderson said anyone interested in crafts should attend.

"They're unique gifts, and a lot of people treasure handmade things," she said. "They have an opportunity to pick up something special."