Leechburg Volunteer Fire Company members renew Christmas craft and vendor show

A Christmas Craft Show is returning to Leechburg after more than a decade of hibernation.

It has been about 15 years since local artisans, craftsmen and other small businesses showcased their wares at the Leechburg Volunteer Fire Company’s social hall shortly before Christmas.

Company President Brian Scott said volunteers who organized it in the past were unable to continue the tradition.

Members Melissa Aller- Tantlinger and Shay Sterlitz have stepped up this year to start it anew.

“Nobody remembers how it was set up or anything, so we’ll be all newbies at this,” Aller-Tantlinger said. “I just thought since we did all the vendor shows in the summer and everybody enjoyed them, we would have it at the fire hall.”

About 50 crafters will be set up on two floors to help with social distancing Dec. 11 and 12. Admission is free.

Masks are not mandated. However, the fire company encourages vendors and shoppers to follow current state covid protocols.

Patrons will be able to find hard candies, baked goods, jewelry, tumblers, 3D-printed items, Christmas ornaments and more. Among the vendors will be Cedar + Slate, Rittner’s Farmhouse Bakery and Jacksons Custom Designs.

Aller-Tantlinger said she hopes for a big crowd because many of the businesses that participate in the fire company’s summertime food truck rallies and shows have signed up for the two-day event. Santa also plans to visit for a few hours each day.

“This is our first one, and we’ve got a lot of vendors, so hopefully they advertise,” she said.

The fire hall’s kitchen will be open to serve food. Other activities include basket raffles organized by Sherry Price.

“The craft show is a good example of members continuing to give back to the community while at the same time conducting a fundraising event for the fire company,” Scott said. “Melissa had established a very solid network of crafters and vendors from our summer events. Our other company members are assisting as well to help assure a productive show for the fire company, vendors and community.

“(We are) extremely pleased to be able to offer the community an opportunity to enjoy a holiday event.”