Holiday decorations abound at Leach Garden annual sale

Find out why so many people say their Holiday season officially starts with a visit to this annual event …

Do-it-yourselfers search for just the right greens to make Holiday wreaths, centerpieces, and other decorations, at the Leach Botanical Garden Holiday Bazaar.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Many people have already circled the first Friday and Saturday on their new 2013 calendars – marking next year’s Leach Botanical Garden Annual Holiday Bazaar and Artist Market.

And, on December 7 of 2012, the first day of the festive Holiday market, shoppers were there to browse among freshly-made wreaths, swags, centerpieces, cut greens, baked goods, and artist market offerings.

At this time of year, the Leach Manor House takes on the look – and scent – of Christmas, filled with all kinds of Holiday décor, and works by local artists.

The nonprofit “Friends of Leach Garden” funds its activities to help keep up the park with this market, but the annual event has another benefit for the area, co-organizer Lana Younglove told East Portland News.

“When people come out to our sale, and see who we are, and what we are doing, we hope they’ll come back,” Younglove said.

Shopper Peggy Barnett picks holly branches she’ll use to make Holiday decorations.

“Some people buy a membership – a tax-deductable donation that supports our work – but which also gives them discounts at the Gift Shop, and at many of our events throughout the year.”

Younglove noted that as many as 40 volunteers feverishly work for a week or more to gather the greens, and then help create wreaths, swags or centerpieces. “We end up with a really nice collection; with really nice pieces for everyone.”

Harris and Betty Bateman sell bags of nuts to benefit the Multnomah District State Federation of Garden Clubs.

Many shoppers come early when the sale opens to avail themselves of the freshest and most choice greens – or ready-made decorations. While they shop, they also experience the winter garden, sip hot cider in the historic Manor House, and enjoy Holiday music.

If you missed it this year – it’s not too early to join those who mark their calendars for next year’s event – it will be on December 6 and 7, 2013.

Learn more about Leach Botanical Garden at their website: CLICK HERE.

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