Church Celebrates Christmas In July
By Carisa Biesecker
If you know anything about craft fairs, then you know that Horizon Christian Church’s Third Annual Christmas in July Craft Fair is the place to be.Located at 1720 St. Cloud Ave. in Valrico, church members will act as Santa’s Little Helpers, hosting the craft fair on Saturday, July 24, from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Held indoors, more than 50 craft vendors will be on-site at the free event, selling jewelry, woodwork, breads, teas, artwork, crochet, candles, Christmas gifts, sewing items, children’s clothing and more, all ranging from $5 to $50. With an expected 200-250 residents to attend, the craft fair is made possible by the women’s ministry at Horizon Christian Church, with hopes that “the community enjoys an air conditioned craft show,” says Event Coordinator Beverly Schaedler. “It is held inside, so you can come and shop the whole time and enjoy the cool atmosphere.”Last year brought some 150 craft lovers through the doors of the church, with proceeds allotted to the church amounting to just $100, which was used to cover the cost of tablecloths used at vendors’ booths. “This is not to raise money for the church. It is just a day of fun for the community,” mentions Schaedler.Besides shopping for gifts, residents can also purchase a few delectable treats to satisfy their own taste buds, as the members of the church’s youth ministry plan to man a booth of baked goods. All proceeds will go to benefit the teens’ summer trip. “Come one, come all to shop in an air conditioned environment and stock up on Christmas presents early,” concludes Schaedler.Vendors are still being sought for the event. For more information or to inquire details in regard to vendor spaces, call 689-1457. Residents can visit www.horizonchristianchurch.com to learn more about the church itself. Those who are interested in finding a new church home are welcome to attend either of the Sunday services offered by Horizon Christian Church, held at 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m., with nursery care available.
Caption: Valrico’s Horizon Christian Church’s Third Annual Christmas in July Craft Fair, taking place on Saturday, July 24, will host more than “50 vendors, displaying all sorts of crafts, anywhere from jewelry to homemade Christmas items, just in time to stock up for Christmas,” says Event Coordinator Beverly Schaedler.
