Holiday Vibes at a Christmas Bazaar

This past weekend, I attended my last live appearance of the year at St. John LaLande’s annual Christmas Bazaar in Blue Springs, Missouri. It took place in the school gymnasium, and was definitely one of the cozier events I’ve been to this year. But was it worthwhile?

I discovered this event in early November, and following the success of my previous foray to Leavenworth (see that post here), I decided to take a chance on something a little closer to home. I was not disappointed.

While not the most well-attended event of my sales year by far, it had enough to keep things interesting, especially when masses ended in the adjacent (and connected) church. The setup indoors was very well organized, with tables and chairs aplenty (save for those who promised to bring their own like me). I do not know how well advertised the event was–I certainly tried, for my part–but the signage left something to be desired. I didn’t really see any signs until I was practically at the site, and while big and legible, they had a somewhat handmade look to them that, for an annual event, could certainly be improved upon.

As it was, I estimate attendance at a couple hundred total, and that was sufficient. I did make my very modest $20 entry fee back plus a small profit, though it took me both days of the event to do so (a couple of “I’ll come back tomorrow” remarks rang true!). Once again, Knights of Aralia garnered the most interest, making it without a doubt my most sold title/series of 2024 (I was pleased to add the proof copies of Book III: The Return of Hope to my display this time via my individual featured book racks). I guess warring dinosaurs just don’t hold the appeal to the general public that they once did.

Would I consider this event to be worth the time and effort? I would say, barring a major increase in attendance, I would say no, unless you’re a local like myself. Even then, bring plenty to do. But, if you’re after a laid back vending experience with friendly people and proper holiday vibes (they played a radio station with real Christmas music here: not that shallow, soulless corporate noise you hear in most stores this time of year), then St. John LaLande’s Christmas Bazaar might be the place to promote your next book…especially if it’s women’s fiction.