Annual Holly Berry Festival Returns November 22-23

HAMDEN – Get into the Christmas spirit at the 41st annual Holly Berry Festival happening November 22 and November 23 at Sacred Heart Academy in Hamden.

Hosted by the Apostles of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, the Holly Berry Festival is a two-day craft fair that brings together Christmas shopping, raffle giveaways, entertainment and family-friendly activities. Event proceeds benefit the retired and infirmed Apostle Sisters.

This year’s event will feature over 45 crafters from across the state, many of whom are new to the festival. Shoppers can also purchase a variety of items made by the Sisters, including festival favorites such as pickled eggplant, fresh fruit jams, and award-winning apple pies—all made using locally-grown produce.

Children’s activities will include pictures with Santa, a Home Depot craft zone, face painting and more. New this year will be a ticketed meet and greet with Anna and Elsa from Disney’s “Frozen” on Saturday, November 23 from 10-11 a.m. Meet and greet tickets are $10 per child and can be purchased by calling 203-281-2562 or online.

Attendees can also enjoy musical performances by Connecticut Yankee Chorus and local school choirs.

Other festival highlights include raffle drawings, “Christmas Tree Lane” and the annual Pasta Dinner on Friday, November 22 from 5-7 p.m. Pasta dinner tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for children.

The Holly Berry Festival takes place Friday, November 22 from 3-8 p.m. and Saturday, November 23 from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. inside the Philip Paolella Recreational Center at Sacred Heart Academy: 265 Benham Street, Hamden, CT 06514

Parking and admission are free! For more information, visit www.ascjus.org/hollyberry.