Noel Night 2022

Thank you to our sponsors

Now celebrated as the one of biggest shopping days of the year in La Plata County, Noel Night originated in 2002 as a response to the Missionary Ridge Fire and the repercussions this disaster had on our local, independent businesses. Since then, Noel Night has grown into a well-loved tradition that continues to have an enormous impact on our local economy and overall community well-being.

Noel Night helps to highlight local retailers and restaurants during the most wonderful time of the year. The holiday shopping event brings shoppers from across the Four Corners to Durango for festive fun and holiday deals. The nonprofit organization Local First organizes the event with funding from sponsors.

Local First appreciates the sponsors that support efforts to host a spectacular shopping event. This year, Noel Night is made possible by the partnership of Local First and Ballantine Communications, and sponsors Alpine Bank, City of Durango, Durango Business Improvement District, Durango Sustainable Goods, Visit Durango and the independent business owners in the community.

Even with these combined efforts, this event wouldn’t be considered Durango’s holiday party without you, the guests! So, shout out to the residents that attend from every Four Corners community! Thank you for making the event more lively, and supporting local businesses.

You're always looking for ways to support our community. We share your desire to make a di erence and encourage you to keep shopping locally this holiday season, using your Alpine Bank Loyalty Debit Card. Every time you use it, Alpine Bank donates 10 cents to nonpro ts right here in Durango.

Learn more about our featured small businesses at alpinebank.com, with a search for #SmallandMighty.

*Alpine Bank debit cards are available with no annual fee to individuals with an Alpine Bank checking account.

Shop small this season

HOW TO MAKE THE MOST OF HOLIDAY DEALS, DISCOUNTS

Noel Night is a festive tradition that attracts a jolly crowd. After all, what’s not to love about sipping cocktails and snacking on cookies while browsing stores? This annual event also presents wonderful opportunities for shoppers to score good deals and deep discounts on a variety of gifts and goods. Use these strategies to save money while supporting small businesses this season.

SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESSES

Small bu S ine SS e S are the lifeblood of many communitie S. S how Small bu S ine SS e S your appreciation for their convenience and friendly S ervice.

1. Shop at Small buSineSSeS regularly

2. uSe Social media to recommend local buSineSSeS that go above and beyond in quality and Service

3. Speak with buSineSS ownerS about your experience aS a cuStomer, Sharing inSight about both good and bad experienceS.

4. think of Small buSineSS SponSorShipS when putting together fundraiSerS.

5. if you own a Small buSineSS, keep buSineSS cardS, flyerS or a Sign advertiSing another Small buSineSS in the area to Show mutual Support.

6. participate in community eventS that may be SponSored by Small buSineSS ownerS

MAKE A LIST – AND A BUDGET

Choices can be overwhelming when shopping for gifts. Be intentional with your shopping time. Start by taking note of the type of items you intend to purchase for each person on your list, and the retailers that carry them. Set and budget and stick to it by carefully tracking expenses. Don’t feel obligated to buy something just for the sake of a good sale. This can bust a budget quickly.

COMPARE PRICES

Being a savvy shopper means knowing the value of items before shopping. Unfortunately, some stores inflate prices around the holidays so that “doorbuster” deals seem like a deep slash. However, a $20 item marked down to $15 may not be such a bargain when you realize the original selling price was $15. So, it’s important to know the ordinary sticker price of common items before assuming it is available on a great deal.

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF COUPONS AND REWARDS

Ask the employees of the store if there are any coupons or promotions that you may be missing. Small businesses may have more wiggle room to work with you because they’re not beholden to corporate pricing strategies. It never hurts to ask, even if the answer is “no.” Purchase a Be Local Coupon Book produced by Local First for $25 to access over $4,000 of savings.

GET REWARDED FOR LOOKING LOCAL

D urango B usiness i mprovement D istrict ’s H oli Day r ewar Ds p rogram starts n ov. 25, receipts of at least $25 from eligi B le B i D or cHam B er mem B er B usinesses can earn s H oppers a local gift car D. tH ere are 300 rewar Ds availaB le, an D t H e program will en D w H en t H e rewar Ds are claime D. s H oppers may su Bmit up to 10 receipts.

S pend $100, get $25 gift card

S pend $300, get a $50 gift card

S pend $500, get a $100 gift card

thi S year ’ S program S upported by d urango c hamber of c ommerce i S pre S ented by a lpine b ank and S pon S ored by e olu S b ar & d ining .

S ee all the rule S and S ubmit receipt S at www.downtowndurango.org/holiday rewardS.

Community donation drives

PROJECT DURANGO CHRISTMAS

Creating holiday magic comes at a cost for many families. Purchasing gifts for children can place a heavier financial burden on parents struggling to stay afloat. However, with a little help from the local community, families in need can also create indelible memories together.

Now in its third year, Project Durango Christmas is a grassroots effort to combat isolation and connect neighbors while helping families in need. Those seeking assistance create a post on the Facebook group page, and individuals connect with a person or family to sponsor via comments.

The individuals make arrangements to deliver items, such as clothing, food and toys for children. To participate, see more information on the group page Project Durango Christmas www.facebook.com/ groups/427217445337851.

HOLLY JOLLY TOY DRIVE

Kroegers Ace Hardware, 8 Town Plaza

Atlas Specific Chiropractic, 1800 East Third Ave., Suite 108

VOA Senior Living Facilities, 3160 East Animas Village Drive

Create Art & Tea, 1015 Main Ave.

Visit www.lpfcc.org/toydrive/ for more information.

TOYS FOR TOTS

Toys for Tots is a national campaign by the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve to collect and distribute gifts to underprivileged children in communities across the country. Last year, this program provided over 3,000 gifts to 1,000 children in La Plata County.

GIVING OPPORTUNITIES THAT BENEFIT LOCAL FAMILIES

FOUR CORNERS BROADCASTING

Four Corners Broadcasting has three upcoming donation drives to benefit charities. This year, donations can be dropped off from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturdays at the following locations:

Dec. 3 Durango Dermatology, 523 S. Camino del Rio Suite B benefiting the Durango Food Bank

Dec. 10 Kinfolk Farms, 83A Davidson Creek Road benefiting VOA Veterans Programs

Dec. 17 Napa, 377 S. Camino del Rio benefiting La Plata Family Centers Coalition

La Plata Family Centers Coalition (LPFCC) holds an annual toy drive to benefit the clients they serve year-round. Deputy Direction Amber Turley said the organization delivered gifts to 528 children through the Holly Jolly Toy Drive. Adopt an angel or take donations to one of the sponsor locations below:

The Family Center (inside Christ the King Lutheran Church), 495 Florida Road

Guild House Games, 835 Main Ave., Suite 203-204

Escalante Middle School, 141 Baker Lane

Lewis True Value Mercantile, 311 Bayfield Center Drive, Bayfield

Mobile Jo Testing Facility, 862 Main Ave., Suite 212

Prohibition Herb, 1185 Camino del Rio

This year, Toys for Tots is excited to continue this tradition. To get involved, individuals may donate new, unwrapped gifts to benefit children up to 18 years old. Families may apply for assistance through the Salvation Army.

Donors may drop off toys at one of the participating locations below by Dec. 15.

Ballantine Communities, 1275 Main Ave.

Beads and Beyond 840 Main Ave.

Bodo Athletics, 194 Bodo Drive Unit D

Colorado Title and Closing Services, 970 Main Ave.

Durango Harley Davidson, 750 S. Camino del Rio

Denise Elliott State Farm Insurance Agency, 25825 Highway 160

Happy Pappy’s Pizza N Wings, 2411 Main Ave.

La Plata County, 1101 East Second Ave.

Los Amigos del Sur, 835 Main Ave. 106

Southwest Ag Inc., 39927 Highway 160, Bayfield

4 Corners Trailers, 39894 Highway 160, Bayfield

Local gift guide

‘TIS THE SEASON

e xchanging gift S during the holiday S ea S on i S an ea S y way to S how appreciation for other S w hen S hopping for friend S , family, neighbor S and coworker S , look for opportunitie S to enhance their day to day life with your gift i t ’ S ea S y to find a wide range of S pecial gift S locally h ere are S ome idea S to help you get S tarted.

1. ROBE

Soft robe in two colors: periwinkle or corduroy … $98.99, $108.99 Durango Hot Springs Resort & Spa

2. BAR SOAP

Handmade bar soap made with Durango Hot Springs mineral water … $5.99

Durango Hot Springs Resort & Spa

3.

MEN’S GROOMING GIFT SET

Organic beard oil by Cura.Te, shaving cream by Gentleman’s Farmer and a bamboo leather dopp kit … $85 Durango Sustainable Goods

4. SOCKS

World’s Softest Socks … $10.99 Out of the Blue

5. WELLNESS KIT

Energy healing and wellness set … $29.99

Halfway to Heaven

6. MUGS

Various designs … $12.99 and up Out of the Blue

7. SHERPA BLANKETS

High-quality comfort in many designs … $49.99

Out of the Blue

1. DURANGO WINE EXPERIENCE TICKET

Gift a special experience for a good cause, gift boxes available … $140

*Early bird pricing Dec. 1-31 Community Foundation Serving Southwest Colorado

$10 minimum … $10+ Durango Allen Theaters

GIFT CARD Give a gift card … Any amount Durango Organics

GIFT CARD Gift cards for soaks, spa and massage services, retail or concessions … Any amount

Durango Hot Springs Resort & Spa

Get a gift card for the sustainable shopper … Any amount

Second Time Around

Dozens of designs … $5.99 and up Out of the Blue

Dozens of designs … $4.99 and up Out of the Blue 8. COOZIES

Leather drink insulator … $8.99 and up Out of the Blue 9. FRY BREAD MIX

Easy dough mix … $9.99

Halfway to Heaven

10. HUCKLEBERRY PEOPLE

Syrups, jellies, mixes and more … $5.99 and up Halfway to Heaven

Noel Night deals and events

11TH STREET STATION

4-10 p.m., 1101 Main Ave.

Swing by 11th Street Station for live music performances and enjoy hot drink specials.

AAA CHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE

5- 9 p.m., 16 Town Plaza

Stop by the AAA office for Christmas cookies, hot cocoa, coffee and a raffle.

AFFORDABLE FRAMING ON MAIN

9 a.m.-5:30 p.m., 955 Main Ave.

Come in for cookies and cocoa, and take advantage of deals on your custom framing and store merchandise.

ANIMAS CHOCOLATE & COFFEE COMPANY

11 a.m.-7 p.m., 920 Main Ave.

Join us all day on Dec. 2 to save 20% off all standard gift baskets.

ANIMAS TRADING COMPANY

5-9 p.m., 742 Main Ave, Durango

Join Animas Trading Company on Noel Night for live music from Bobs Ur Uncle and festive refreshments.

ARTESANOS HOME FURNISHINGS

5-9 p.m., 700 East Second Ave.

Join Artesanos for live music, beverages and nibbles. Plus, get 15% off storewide.

ARTISAN MARKET

5-9 p.m., 835 Main Ave.

The Noel Night Artisan Market is the first ever market at the Main Mall on the most popular local shopping night of the year. What better way than to support the wonderful creatives in this community by purchasing their pieces directly from them for your holiday gifts?

A SHARED BLANKET

5-8 p.m., 104 E. Fifth St.

Meet John Grow and view his most recent oil paintings of Durango life by visiting A Shared Blanket on Noel Night.

BEADS & BEYOND

10 a.m.-8 p.m., 840 Main Ave.

Join Beads & Beyond and their friendly elf staff as they spread holiday cheer with cookies galore. Also enjoy Beads & Beyond’s annual storewide sale, including 20% off to Celebrate 20 years of Noel Night fun.

BLUES MTN & SOUL

6-8:30 p.m., 915 Main Ave.

Enjoy live music with Rob Webster at Blues Mtn & Soul on Noel Night.

CARVER BREWING CO.

11 a.m.-9 p.m., 1022 Main Ave,.

Free pint of beer or handmade soda with the purchase of a $25 gift card at Carver’s.

CENTER FOR INNOVATION

4:30-6 p.m., 835 Main Ave Suite 225 (on the second floor of the Main Mall)

Opening reception for “Life in Small Moments” a juried exhibition highlighting artwork of La Plata county artists and juried by the Gallery Management team at FLC with an award announcement around 5:15 p.m. 5-7 p.m.

F LC MAKER’S MARKET

Support FLC artisans at the Noel Night Maker’s Market. Around 20 sellers offering art prints, pottery, jewelry, clothing, crocheted items, baked goods and more.

CHRISTMAS IN DURANGO

10 a.m.-7 p.m., 563 Main Ave.

Christmas in Durango will be celebrating all day long with holiday refreshments and a 10% off everything discount.

CREATE ART & TEA

5-7 p.m., 1015 Main Ave.

Travis Jensen is our featured artist at Create Art & Tea, and he will be playing his Native American Flute music on Noel Night. Also 5% discount on all teas. Loose leaf teas sold by the ounce and cups to go.

CROW’S CLOSET

5-8 p.m., 750 Main Ave. Food, music and fun. Roll the dice at the register for a percentage off your purchase.

DANCING WILLOW HERBS

5-9 p.m., 1018 Main Ave. A

Find handcrafted herbal products, unique stocking stuffers, warming teas and other curated gifts for your loved ones. We will have snacks, herbal cocktails/mocktails and teas available for sampling.

DIANE WEST JEWELRY & ART

11 a.m.-8 p.m., 820 Main Ave.

Join us for the Local Jewelry Extravaganza. New creations from local jewelers Adam Parker, Gretchen Magwitz, Pat Hartman, Mary Orsini, Tracey Belt, Susan Kemmerly and Will Harjes. We will also have 10% off of everything in the gallery for Noel Night only.

DURANGO ANTIQUE MARKET

5-9 p.m., 780 Main Ave. A

Jolly Old St. Nick will be at the Durango Antique Market. Bring your camera for your visit with Santa and shop for your one-of-a-kind, unique gifts.

DURANGO ARTS CENTER

4:30-9 p.m., 802 East Second Ave.

Durango Arts Center will not only be hosting a gift gallery with art made by local artists, but there will also be two classes (Pots and Pints and Ceramic Ornament Painting) and an improv night. Come visit for some hot chocolate and a wonderful and fun evening.

DURANGO BOTANIC GARDENS

6-8:30 p.m., Animas River Trail, 1900 East Third Ave.

Join us for a magical night at the Durango Botanic Gardens. Luminaries will light your way. Hot chocolate¸ spiced cider and cookies provided on the library patio. Santa and Mrs. Claus are making a special appearance to read holiday stories.

Noel Night deals and events

DURANGO WELCOME CENTER

4:30-6:30 p.m., 802 Main Ave.

The Durango Welcome Center will feature live holiday music played by local musicians and students. We will also provide hot cocoa, water, holiday decor and more.

FRONTERA SILVER

1-6 p.m., 862 Main Ave. Suite 1A

Frontera Silver, voted #1 jewelry store in Durango, creates mindfully made metal jewelry, ranging from bolo ties, local mountain range jewelry and bold statement pieces. Check out our one-of-a-kind pieces.

LIVELY A BOUTIQUE

10 a.m.-9 p.m., 809 Main Ave.

Play Yahtzee at Lively, all day on Dec. 2. Roll for a discount between 10-50%.

LOLA’S PLACE HOLIDAY CELEBRATION

5-9 p.m., 725 East Second Ave.

Enjoy our cozy dining room or heated patio on Noel Night! Enjoy the best authentic Mexican food from Cuevas Tacos, Japanese fare from Rokko Izakaya and vegetarian/vegan/gluten free bowls and soups from Mountain Stir Fry while you sip on a drink from Lola’s Bar, Taste specialty coffee or Thimbleberry. Give the gift of good food, drink and community this season! Get a free pint of beer with the purchase of a $25 or more Lola’s Bar Gift Card.

MAGPIES NEWSSTAND & CAFE

9 a.m.-8 p.m., 707 Main Ave.

Roll the dice and win up to 20% off of your entire purchase. All cafe and boba drinks will be 20% off and 10% off all store items including our over 4,000 cards, 700 magazines/lit readings, Zuberfizz sodas (4, 8, & 12 packs) and Desert Sun Coffee’s Holiday Blend.

MAKE ME UP CONNIE AT THE BEAUTY BAR

5-8 p.m., 1480 East Second Ave. #6

Join Make Me Up Connie at the Beauty Bar for a live DJ, local artists displays, as well as make-up and eyebrow demos while you enjoy hot cocoa, bizcochitos and specials on services and gift certificates.

MARIA’S BOOKSHOP

9 a.m.-9 p.m., 960 Main Ave.

Roll the discount dice at Maria’s Bookshop for 5-20% off all day on Dec. 2.

MOVING MOUNTAINS NUTRITION

5-8 p.m., 2607 Main Ave.

Join Moving Mountains Nutrition for healthy on the go food and treats for all to enjoy.

PEDAL THE PEAKS

5-9 p.m., 598 Main Ave. B

Join Pedal the Peaks on Noel Night for smores, hot cocoa and coffee.

PINE NEEDLE DRY GOODS

5-8 p.m., 858 Main Ave. #101

Join Pine Needle Dry Goods for festive refreshments. On Noel Night, 10% of sales will be donated to the Adaptive Sports Association of Durango.

REVIVAL GOODS

5-8 p.m., 600 Main Ave. #102

Revival Goods will have specials on handmade artisan goods from over 30 countries.

SCAPE

5-8 p.m., 558 Main Ave.

SCAPE’s Start-Up Pop-Up will feature companies that manufacture incredibly innovative goods to make your gift giving thoughtful, unique and local. Sample food and drinks provided by EsoTerra Ciderworks, and do your shopping while enjoying heritage cider that’s picked, pressed and poured in our region.

SHIRT OFF MY BACK

5-8 p.m., 638 Main Ave.

Shirt Off My Back will have cookies, games and discounts off your purchases.

SORREL SKY GALLERY

5-8 p.m., 828 Main Ave.

Join Sorrel Sky for an opening reception featuring the fine art gourds of Robert Rivera. These one-of-a-kind, handcrafted bowls, masks, rattles, figures, ornaments and more can be found at the gallery through the holiday shopping season, into the New Year, and beyond.

STICKS & STONES HANDMADE

11 a.m.-8 p.m., 922 Main Ave. Support small business and local art this holiday season. Join us for one-day, all-day savings of 10% off storewide. All gifts are locally made and finely crafted.

STILLWATER MUSIC

6:30-8 p.m., 1316 Main Ave. Suite C Durango Dance presents A Winter’s Dream. This is a familyfriendly dance performance celebrating all things holiday and snow. Tickets are $20 ($10 for children). Purchase online at https://dancestudio-pro.com/tickets/index. p?sid=852cc1e6927635762eb497779ed984f86117d9867407b

STITCH

10 a.m.-8 p.m., 858 Main Ave.

Join Stitch for a day of food, fun and games. Pop a balloon for a discount!

STUDIO & GALLERY

5-8 p.m., 1027 Main Ave.

Studio & will be featuring artful gifts made by local artists. As always, Studio & is your place to find local art, sold by the very people who made it. Give the gift of local art this year.

THE LIVELY DAIKON

5-7 p.m., 680 B Main Ave.

Join The Lively Daikon for live entertainment by Hannah O’Wilder. She will perform chill original music. Gift cards are 25% off all night long.

THE SMILEY BUILDING

5-8 p.m., 1309 E 3rd Ave Suite 20B

The ArtRoom Collective is Durango’s working studio gallery where 22 artists, jewelers, potters and others create and sell their handmade goods. Noel Night will feature artist spotlights with multiple demonstrations to teach and inspire. Bring your own glass, mug or flute, and stop by Durango Sustainable Goods for local tea, cider and mocktail tastings.

THE SPARROW

5-9 p.m., 801 Main Ave.

Stop by for a warm specialty cocktail from Honeyville and feature pop up shops from Desert Moon Jewelry Co. and Animas Glow Studio. Storewide discounts starting at 15% off and up to 30% off and Santa Hat discounts all day! We will be featuring the brand release of Dark Horse Limited, our very own made in the USA clothing line.

THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE HOME

11 a.m.-6 p.m., 822 Main Ave.

Stop in to shop and receive a discount on your purchase.

TOAST RECORDS & BAKES

10 a.m.-9 p.m., 643 A Main Ave.

Join Toast Records and Bakes for Noel Night festivities all day. Tasty treats starting at 5 p.m. Enjoy 10%-20% discounts.

URBAN MARKET

10 a.m.-8 p.m., 865 Main Ave.

Stop in all day on Noel Night and draw for your discount. You could choose 10%, 15% or 20% off your entire purchase.

Y.E.S.S. THE BOOK HUTCH

9 a.m.-6 p.m., 143 E. Ninth St.

Celebrate the Book Hutch’s 29th Anniversary all day Dec. 2. Receive activity packs for children, while supplies last. Enjoy up to 29% off your purchases.

YOGADURANGO

4-8 p.m., 1485 Florida Road C-201

Join Yogadurango for a special Candlelight Vinyasa Class with Amber DeHerrera from 5:30-6:45 p.m. | Class packages on sale $5 for 5 classes, $10 for 10 classes, $20 for 20 classes and 20% off all retail purchases. Class packages are available to purchase online or in-studio.

Wrapping and shipping gifts

HOW TO ORGANIZE

A WRAPPING STATION

Wrapping supplies can be difficult to manage due to awkward shapes and sizes that eat up a lot of space. Instead of rifling through loose gift bags and stray rolls of ribbon, get organized. Temporarily clearing a space in the home to create a dedicated area for wrapping presents can streamline the process.

INVENTORY

Basic gift wrapping will require some essential items, including tape, scissors, wrapping paper, gift labels and a pen. A good wrapping station should also be able to store items such as ribbon, stickers, washi tape, gift boxes, tissue paper and other decorative tools.

LOCATION

A wrapping station can be custom-made or you can use items already around the house. The first and most important piece of a good wrapping station is access to a hard, flat and spacious surface. A laundry room or large closet can be the ideal location for a wrapping station. A regular side-by-side washer and dryer or sturdy dresser can become a basecamp during the holiday season.

ORGANIZATION

An organized gift-wrapping station should be accessible and convenient. Storing supplies within an arm’s reach reduces the time spent wrapping presents. Because wrapping paper rolls are the most cumbersome wrapping supplies, find a way to corral them. Storing wrapping paper rolls appropriately helps to preserve quality. A tall laundry hamper works. Organize other supplies in a nearby drawer, basket or caddy. Store gift bags and tissue paper in a fabric tote bag.

Once the gift-giving season is complete, return the wrapping supplies to storage totes for the rest of the year and reclaim your space.

DELIVERY!

A GUIDE TO SHIPPING DURING THE HOLIDAY SEASON!

Remember to review the shipping deadlines for each service provider. Plan for potential delays by sending packages ahead of these deadlines, or expect costly fees to expedite shipping.

A GUIDE TO SHIPPING DURING THE HOLIDAY SEASON!

Though shipping providers offer straightforward service, planning ahead will ensure packages reach their destination on time. Yet, it’s not enough for gifts to arrive on time, they should also arrive intact. So, consult with service providers before shipping fragile items.

SHIPPING DEADLINES

USPS

Dec. 17 – last day to ship USPS Retail Ground Service Dec. 17 – last day to ship First-Class Mail Service

Dec. 19 – last day to ship Priority Mail Service Dec. 23 – last day to ship Priority Mail Express Service * dates exclude Alaska and Hawaii

Deadlines for shipping gifts to Alaska and Hawaii, internationally and to military personnel are available online at www.usps.com/holiday/holidayshipping-dates.

UPS

Dec. 19 – last day to ship 3 Day Select Dec. 21 – last day to ship 2nd Day Air Services Dec. 22 – last day to ship Next Day Air Services

FEDEX

Dec. 8 – last day to ship Ground Economy Dec. 14 – last day to ship Ground Dec. 14 – last day to ship Home Delivery Dec. 20 – last day to ship Express Saver Dec. 21 – last day to ship 2Day Services Dec. 23 – last day to ship Same Day

Sure to please holiday recipes

HOT MULLED APPLE CIDER

Serve this version of Hot Mulled (Sherried) Apple Cider from “The Fresh Honey Cookbook” by Laurey Masterton. The recipe produces a welcoming winter aroma, helping hosts establish a warm ambiance.

Serves 16 1 gallon apple cider

1 orange, unpeeled, cut into slices

¹⁄4 cup whole cloves 4 sticks cinnamon ¹⁄4 cup honey, preferably cranberry honey 1 cup sherry (optional)

Directions: Combine the cider, orange slices, cloves, cinnamon and honey in a large pot over medium heat. Bring to a boil, and then reduce to a simmer over low heat for an hour or so to spread these lovely winter aromas around your home. If you’re serving it to adults, add the sherry.

SWEET POTATO BARS

This recipe for Sweet Potato Chewy Bars features vitamin-rich sweet potatoes and pecans. Enjoy, courtesy of the Mississippi Sweet Potato Council.

Serves 12 4 eggs ³⁄4 cup cooking oil 1 cup coconut 1 teaspoon vanilla 1 16-ounce box dark brown sugar 2 cups Bisquick 1 cup chopped pecans 1 cup finely shredded sweet potatoes

Directions: Combine all ingredients and pour into an oblong pan (9”x13”). Bake 45 minutes at 350 F. Cool and cut into 12 squares.

GREEN BEAN CASSEROLE

Side dishes are just as important to a holiday meal as the main course. Green bean casserole is a staple of many family gatherings. This recipe for traditional Green Bean Casserole, courtesy of Campbell’s, is a hit for the holidays.

Serves 6 1 can (101⁄2 ounces) Campbell’s Condensed Cream of Mushroom soup ¹⁄ 2 cup milk 1 teaspoon soy sauce 4 cups cooked cut green beans 1¹⁄ 3 cups French’s fried onions (divided)

Directions: Heat the oven to 350 degrees. Stir the soup, milk, soy sauce, beans and 2⁄3 cup onions in a 11⁄2-quart casserole. Season the mixture with salt and pepper. Bake for 25 minutes or until hot. Stir the bean mixture. Sprinkle with the remaining 2⁄3 cup onions. Bake for another 5 minutes or until the onions are golden brown.

MINI CHEESE BALL BITES

Guests will love mini cheese ball bites, which offer varied textures and flavors, courtesy of “Spectacular Spreads: 50 Amazing Food Spreads for Any Occasion” by Meagan Brown.

Serves 12 8 ounces light cream cheese, softened 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

3 tablespoons drained, chopped pimentos 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 teaspoon paprika Pinch kosher salt Pinch freshly ground black pepper

¹⁄ 2 cup crushed pecans ¹⁄4 cup chopped chives 12 pretzel sticks

Directions: In a large bowl, stir together the cream cheese, cheddar, pimentos, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Place the crushed pecans and chives in a small bowl. Set aside. Roll the cheese mixture into twelve 1-inch balls. Evenly coat each ball with the pecan-chive mixture. Press a pretzel stick into the top of each cheese ball just before serving. Serve mini cheese balls to guests chilled or at room temperature.

Community events

NOV. 26

Holiday Art Walk, 11 a.m.-9 p.m., 123 W. Main, Downtown Farmington. Free. Regional artists transform downtown into a holiday scene on Small Business Saturday.

NOV. 27

Artists Sunday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Grand Avenue in Mancos. Over 30 artists showcase their craft at Fenceline Cider, Mancos Opera House and local art galleries. Free.

NOV. 29- DEC. 3

Festival of Trees, times vary, Farmington Civic Center, 200 W. Arrington, Farmington. See the holidays spring to life. Free. www. pmsfestivaloftrees.org.

DEC. 1

Farmington Christmas Parade, 5:30-8:30 p.m., Farmington downtown, Main Street. Bundle up for a parade of festive lights. Free. www. farmingtonnm.org/events/christmas-parade.

DEC. 2-4

19th Annual Festival of Trees, Noon-5 p.m., Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad Museum, 479 Main Ave. View a dazzling display of trees and wreaths.

Annual Arts & Crafts Festival, 2-7 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Sunday, La Plata County Fairgrounds, 2500 Main Ave. Hosted by Miss Margie’s Festival Productions featuring over 100 local vendors.

DEC. 2

Noel Night , 10 a.m., Downtown Durango. Enjoy special offers, live entertainment and festive activities. Don’t miss the new Holiday Artisan Market in the Main Mall.

First Friday Pop-Up, Noon-5 p.m., Bucks Parlor, 644 East College Drive. www.bucksdurango.com

First Friday Art Show, 5-7 p.m., Create Art & Tea, 1015 Main Ave. www.createartandtea.com

Ignacio’s Taste of Christmas, 4:30-7 p.m., downtown Ignacio. Enjoy a holiday market, light parade, festive games and photos with Santa Claus. www.ignaciocreativedistrict.org.

Mancos Olde Fashioned Christmas, 6-8 p.m., Grand Avenue in Mancos. Join the community for the tree lighting and caroling, a visit with Santa and fun for the whole family.

Riverglo, 6-8 p.m., Berg Park. Walk the Animas River Trail as luminarias light the way. Free. www. riverreachfoundation.com

DEC. 3

Bloomfield Craft Fair, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Bloomfield High School, 520 North First St. Local artists showcase and sell one-of-a-kind gifts and goods.

Salmon Ruins Annual Holiday Arts and Crafts Sale, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., McGee Park, 41 Road 5568, Farmington. Artists and makers display and sell wares at one of the most varied fairs in the county. Admission is $1. www.salmonruins.com.

Cortez Holiday Market , 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Montezuma County Senior Center Annex, 117 N. Chestnut St., Cortez. Admission is $5. Shop for beautiful arts and crafts and handmade gifts.

Friends of the Dolores Library Holiday Book Sale, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Dolores Library, 1002 Railroad Ave. Proceeds support library projects and programming. Details: (970) 8824127.

Dolores Christmas Bazaar, 8 a.m.-4 p.m., Dolores Community Center, 400 Riverside Ave. Browse the artistic gifts and goods at the annual holiday fair.

Saturday with Santa, 1-3 p.m., Zu Gallery, 48 W. Main St. Complimentary hot cocoa and candy canes, and photos with Santa. First 100 visitors receive a free photo with Santa by Wild Blue Bug Photography.

Bar D Wranglers, 3-4 p.m., First Baptist Church Aztec, 700 Navajo Ave. The Bar-D Wranglers weave traditional Christmas music with cowboy poetry, comedy and stories. Free with reservations. www.farmingtonnm.org/events/ bar-d-wranglers-at-christmas.

San Juan College Luminarias, 5-10 p.m., San Juan College Campus, 4601 College Blvd. Drive or walk through the campus to see glowing luminarias. Free.

Annual Parade of Lights, 6 p.m., Main Street in downtown Cortez. See the spectacular parade presented by the Four Corners Board of Realtors. Free.

DEC. 4

Resounding Joy! DSC Holiday Concert, 3-5 p.m., 2917 Aspen Drive, Adults $20, Students/ Children $5. Durango Choral Society and Durango Women’s Choir ring in the holiday with lullabies, carols and glee.

DEC. 6

Sing: An Irish Christmas, 7-9:30 p.m., Farmington Civic Center, 200 West Arrington. Enjoy traditional carols and modern music, complete with a choir and Irish step dancing. Ticket prices vary. www.fmtn.org/shows.

DEC. 7

Wreath and Centerpiece Workshop, 5:30-7 p.m., Lola’s Place, 725 East Second Ave. Learn how to create your own craft hosted by Adela Floral. www.adelafloralshop.com.

Wreath Decorating, 6-8 p.m., Pine River Library, 395 Bayfield Center Drive. Decorate an 18-inch artificial wreath with accessories such as ribbons and ornaments.. $15 per person. Cost covers materials.

DEC. 8

Fa La La La Local, 5-9 p.m., downtown Cortez and Zu Gallery, 48 W. Main St. Enjoy live entertainment, holiday goodies, sales, discounts and giveaways. Show a receipt from a local business and receive a complimentary glass of beer or wine at Zu Gallery.

Wreath and Centerpiece Workshop, 5:30-7 p.m., Union Social House, 3062 Main Ave. Learn how to make your own craft hosted by Adela Floral. www.adelaflorashop.com.

DEC. 9-11

The Bizarre Bazaar, 5-9 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday, Studio & Gallery, 1027 Man Ave. Browse the gallery for a variety of gift items made by local artists.

DEC. 9

Glass Ornament Winter Landscapes Painting, 6-7:30 p.m., Durango Arts Center, 802 East Second Ave. $35 per participant. www. durangoartscenter.org.

Evening of Lights, 6-9 p.m., Aztec Ruins National Monument, 725 Ruins Road. www.nps.gov.azru. index.htm.

DEC. 10

Durango Farmers December Holiday Market, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., La Plata County Fairgrounds and Events Center, 2500 Main Ave. Live entertainment, warm food and drinks with festive fun.

Santa Dash, 10 a.m., Aztec North End Plaza. Join Aztec Trails and Open Space for a fun run featuring a 5K and 10K route. www. aztectrailsnm.org.

Christmas at the Galloping Goose, 3-7 p.m., Galloping Goose Historical Society, 421 Railroad Ave., Dolores. See Santa and enjoy storytime on the train. Stay warm by the bonfire and enjoy free hot chocolate and cookies.

DEC. 11

Sutcliffe Vineyard Wreath and Centerpiece Workshop, 1-2:30 p.m., 12174 Road G, Cortez. $125. Sip wine and create festive crafts. www.adelafloral.com.

Downtown Durango’s Premier Boutique

Aztec Sparkles is an all-day event celebrating the holiday season. Christmas Parade starts at 6 p.m., Aztec Main Avenue. Enjoy the art walk, live music, hay rides and a carnival before attending a festive parade followed by the community tree lighting. Free.

DEC. 12

3rd Ave. Arts presents “The Majesty of Christmas”, 7:00 p.m.,St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 910 E. 3rd Ave.,$20 adults, $5 students 12 and up,No Santa. No Frosty or Rudolph. Join favorite local musicians for beautiful Christmas music., www. eventbrite.co.uk/e/3rd-ave-artspresents-the-majesty-of-christmastickets-408815436977.

DEC. 13

Card Making, 10-11 a.m., Pine River Senior Center, 111 W. South

St., Bayfield. Create two handmade cards. Free.

DEC. 14

Chamber Community Holiday Gathering and Awards, 5-8 p.m., Fenceline Cider, 141 South Main St. Free event sponsored by Mancos Valley Chamber of Commerce.

DEC. 16-18

Ski Barn Ski & Gear Sale, 5-8 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Sunday, La Plata County Fairgrounds, 2500 Main Ave. Holiday blowout sale.

DEC. 16

3rd Ave. Arts presents The Majesty of Christmas, 7-8 p.m., St. Marks Episcopal, 910 East Third Ave. Beautiful sounds of the season performed by regional musicians. Admission is $20 for adults and

$5 for students ages 12 and up. www.3rdavearts.org.

African Drumming Ensemble, 7-9 p.m., Connie Gotsch Theatre, 4601 College Blvd. A high energy performance by students and community members. Admission is $8 for adults and $6 students and seniors.

DEC. 17

Audubon Christmas Bird Count, 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m., Riverside Nature Center, North Browning Parkway. Free.

Christmas Bake Sale, 9 a.m., City Market, 508 East Main St. Proceeds benefit For Pet’s Sake Humane Society. www. forpetssakehs.org/ upcoming-events.

Coke Race Series, 9 a.m.-noon, Durango Nordic Center, 49786 Highway 550 N. The long-standing Durango event brings skiers to celebrate winter.

Gingerbread House Contest and Holiday Open House, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., 48475 Highway 550, The Black Diamond Lodge. Enjoy holiday music, drinks and snacks, workshops and activities, then enter the Gingerbread House Contest. Free.

Pet Paws and Santa Claus, 1-4 p.m., Durango Arts Center, 802 East Second Ave., Durango. Bring your pet to DAC to create a pet paw ornament from clay and have your photo taken with Santa. $45 per participant. www.durangoarts. app.neoncrm.com/np/clients/ durangoarts/eventRegistration. jsp?event=2879&

Annual Old Fashioned Christmas Celebration, 4:30-7 p.m., Pagosa Riverwalk downtown. Festive music performances, hot air balloon glow, a visit from Santa Claus and seasonal magic. Free.

DEC. 21

Winter Solstice Celebration, 4:30 p.m., Aztec National Ruins. www. nps.gov.azru.index.htm

DEC. 22

Live Navajo Nativity, 6-8 p.m., Four Corners Home for Children, 2103 West Main St. Drop off donations and canned goods and enjoy the drive-through live nativity. Free.

DEC. 24

Santa Claus Comes to Town, 1 p.m., corner of 13th and Greene in downtown Silverton. Take photos with Santa by the community Christmas tree. Free.

DEC. 25

Christmas Day Dinner, Aztec Community Center, 101 S. Park Ave. Free.

Annual Community Christmas Luncheon, Silverton Public School Cafeteria. Bring a side dish or dessert to share. Free.

DEC. 26

Skate Clinic for Beginners, 1-3 p.m., Durango Nordic Center, 49786 Highway 550 N. Try a 2-hour lesson and clinic for all ages. $35 per person.

DEC. 31

Silverton’s New Year’s Eve, 9 a.m.-midnight., downtown Silverton. Ring in the new year.

Red Hot Relay, 10 a.m.-noon, Durango Nordic Center, 49786 Highway 550 N. Youth fundraiser.

New Year’s Eve Torchlight Parade and Fireworks Display, 6 p.m., Purgatory Ski Resort, #1 Skier Place. Ring in the new year with friends at the ski resort. Free.

JAN. 6

Alpine Bank Full Moon Howler, 6-9 p.m., Durango Nordic Center, 49786 Highway 550 N. Familyfriendly guided snowshoe tours followed by warm beverages. Admission is $8 for adults and $6 for children and seniors.