Derynoski Bazaar Promises Holiday Fun and Shopping

Christmas is just two weeks away and for those who still have gift to buy on their shopping list (or lists) this holiday, the PTO has you covered.

Celebrate the season on Saturday with the first-ever at the Derynoski School, 240 Main St., an event that organizers said promises to combine fun with fundraising to help support the school, the food pantry at Southington Community Services and other charitable organizations.

“It was a concept that’s been used at other schools and it was discussed for several years, but members of the PTO decided to take on the challenge this year as a fundraiser,” said Courtney Peluso, who was tapped to provide publicity for the event. “One hundred percent of the proceeds go back to the school for supplies, field trips and other needs.”

The event will run from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and the only charge for admission is a non-perishable food item, all of which will be given to the food pantry to help with family needs this holiday season.

The event will feature several activities for local residents to enjoy, including a bake sale in partnership with the “give Back girls” of and middle schools, over 30 vendors providing a variety of shopping activities, a crafts fair and raffle with various prizes.

Peluso said there will also be a “Kids Corner” activity center designed to keep children entertained while their parents or guardians take a moment for themselves to browse the vendor booths and do some of that mid-December holiday shopping.

Speaking of the shopping, you won’t want to miss the opportunities. Vendors include more than 30 area businesses and at-home sales opportunities, with representatives of Pampered Chef, Tastefully Simple, Sand Art Plus and Beadtini Boutiques all present to share their items.

In the parking lot, residents can also take advantage of special deals from “At Home Mattress,” a company that provides you an opportunity to try different mattresses and order your delivery on-site, Peluso said.

“We are looking forward to this and we are hoping for a great turnout,” Peluso said.