Holiday shoppe
BY M.J. KORSAK
Special to The Press
Residents of Catasauqua and the surrounding area have a new Christmas shopping destination.
If you are tired of having to travel to find a personal, handmade gift, tired of fighting the crowds and traffic, tired of giving gifts made overseas, then don’t worry - Historic Catasauqua Preservation Association has got you covered.
With the opening of the first-ever Biery House holiday shoppe Nov. 25, there is now a place right in your neighborhood where you can find the work of almost 50 local artists in a historical setting decorated with a Victorian theme.
The Biery House, for those who are not familiar, is located at 8 Race St., Catasauqua, right along the canal, and serves as headquarters for HCPA. Parking is in the rear and can be accessed via Union Street.
It has a mule barn, summer kitchen and a large house, all of which have been dedicated to the holiday shoppe and now display a huge selection of unique, handcrafted merchandise ready for customers to peruse.
From wreaths and garden art in the barn and ornaments sparkling in the summer kitchen to delectable treats, glass art, jewelry, painted boxes, quilts, dolls and much more in the six rooms of the house, the goods available are too numerous to name. Tastefully arranged and with Victorian embellishments throughout, the effect is just lovely.
If you’re hungry for some beauty in your Christmas, this is where you can find it. Your eyes will have a feast.
The evening, when the lights come on, promises to make things even more magical. If it gets nippy outside, you can always stop by the fire pit for some hot dogs and hot chocolate to warm up.
At some point during your visit, make sure to get your pictures taken with St. Nick or in the beautifully restored sleigh.
The best part? Proceeds benefit HCPA, so come out and shop until you drop, knowing you’re supporting a good cause. The shoppe is open 4-8 p.m. Fridays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturdays and noon-4 p.m. Sundays through Dec. 17.