By Jacob Mathias

The annual South Wood County Humane Society Christmas Bazaar is set for December 5 inside the former Younkers building of the Rapids Mall.

The popular Christmas decoration shopping destination begins at 9:00 AM and runs until 5:00 PM. and offers the gamut of holiday decor including artificial trees, wreaths, figurines and ornaments. Also available are crafts, jewelry, pet items, gifts and SWCHS apparel. The crowd favorite bake sale also returns. All items are donated by local business and private individuals.

Raffle baskets and complimentary refreshments will be available at the bazaar as well.

“We literally have a line in the morning of people who are waiting for the doors to open so they can get their baked goods,” said SWCHS Executive Director Bridget Chariton.

Last year’s bazaar saw 300 people through the door within the first hour and about 600 for the whole day. Chariton said she expects more shoppers this year due to Younkers offering more space for the bazaar.

Last year’s bazaar earned the humane society over $10,000 and as always the goal is to exceed that this year.

The bazaar is one of four major fundraiser for SWCHS which also include the Iron Chef competition, 5K9 Run/Walk and the Souper Snow Sculpture Spectacular.

Those wishing to donate new or gently used holiday items or gifts can bring them to the SWCHS at 3621 64th St. N in Wisconsin Rapids until November 30. Following that, donations can be brought directly to Younkers at the Rapids Mall at 555 W. Grand Ave.

“Being that we have a larger space, the sky is the limit essentially and we won’t turn away anyone’s donations,” said Chariton.

For more information please contact South Wood County Humane Society at 715-423-0505 or email swchs@swchs.co