Occasionally there are questions or one hears misconceptions about the Alternative Christmas Fair, which will be held Saturday, November 14 and Sunday, November 15 from 9 AM - 3 PM at Evergreen Lutheran Church. Maybe it's time to clarify what is so alternative about a fair that is put on by a consortium of five area churches.

First of all, The Alternative Christmas Fair (ACF) is a place where 45 non-profit organizations can sell their jewelry, handbags, hammers, crafts, stationary, soup mixes, cookie mixes and much more and keep 100% of the proceeds. Because of the support and gifts from Church of the Hills, Presbyterian; Christ the King Catholic Church; Wild Rose Congregational Church; United Methodist Church of Evergreen; Evergreen Lutheran Church; and other generous individuals there is no cost, repeat no cost, for these non-profits to participate. That's an alternative idea that has now been around about 10 years and last year raised $120,000 for desperately needy people all over the globe.

Secondly, ACF is an alternative to buying the same things that are seen in countless chain stores. At ACF the items sold are mostly handmade, handcrafted by local, national, and international artisans, and are definitely unique. Handbags made from newspapers, bracelets and necklaces made from magazines, jewel colored beans to make mouth watering soups, and hand-woven silk scarves are just some of gifts that are available for purchase. Shopping around the world in one place for exquisite gifts is delightfully alternative.

A third wonderful alternative at ACF is that customers have the option of giving a donation to one of five nonprofits soliciting contributions only. For those who don't need more things, giving a donation in a loved ones' name is a fabulous idea.

Another way that ACF is alternative is that it's right here in the foothills. There's no need to fight the traffic, distance, and snow to go "down the hill". Of course for those coming from the Denver Metro area, it's a picturesque drive to the hills and a wonderful respite from mall madness. For the past couple of years, ACF has been held at Evergreen Lutheran Church, 5980 Hwy 73, Evergreen, CO 80439. It has grown to be hugely popular so crowds can be daunting mid-day on Saturday. Coming on Sunday might offer a more tranquil experience.

A blessed alternative at ACF to the negative stereotype about teenagers is that youth from multiple churches will be selling tasty snacks and lunch items at the Youth Café. These great kids are doing this to support their mission trips and other activities. An alternative to baking is to buy fresh homemade items at ACF. (The bake goods table is the only table at ACF where the money goes to help put on the fair.)

Onefinal example of the alternative nature of ACF is that this year customers are asked to bring non-perishable items to ACF. These canned goods and boxed items will give Evergreen Christian Outreach a boost during the upcoming holiday season in helping local residents in dire need. However, it is not an entrance requirement. Entrance, as always, is free! And it's certainly not alternative these days that bringing your own bag helps save the environment, that's pretty standard.

Let's be clear, the Alternative Christmas Fair has nothing to do with lifestyle or sexuality. It has nothing to do with family composition. It isn't about political ideologies or principles. It is all about giving! Giving non-profit organizations a free venue to sell their products to support their missions. Giving customers a place to buy unique and beautiful items that are rarely found elsewhere. Giving people an opportunity to give back to the world. Alternative Christmas Fair is where you can "Buy Once, Gift Twice."