The St. John Ladies Society welcomed the community to a joyful Fall Harvest Celebration on Saturday, November 15, and Sunday, November 16, held immediately following church services. The  celebration featured a lively Pop-Up Show and Sale showcasing the talents of local artisans, along with a special culinary highlight prepared by members of the Ladies Society.

One of the standout features of the weekend was the traditional Armenian dish Ghapama—a beautifully roasted pumpkin stuffed with rice, dried fruits, and a variety of nuts. Lovingly prepared by several members of the Ladies Society, the Ghapama added warmth, fragrance, and cultural flavor to the festivities, becoming a favorite treat among guests.

On Saturday, the Paul Family Hall transformed into a charming market that looked almost like a Christmas village. Artists and vendors filled the space with color and creativity, each ready to share their handmade work with enthusiastic visitors. Among the offerings were clothing, resin art, photography, books, chocolate, holiday decorations, jewelry, stationary note cards, information on books and movies in production, baked goods…and unique pieces crafted by artisans from Armenia. The wide selection gave attendees a wonderful opportunity to find meaningful gifts while supporting local talent.

The event proved to be a tremendous success. Shoppers expressed their delight at getting an early start on their Christmas shopping—without the stress of holiday traffic—and enjoyed the added bonus of savoring the delicious Ghapama as they browsed.

The St. John Ladies Society extends heartfelt thanks to all the artists, vendors, and dedicated volunteers whose hard work and enthusiasm made this festive weekend such a memorable and successful celebration.