AUBURN — Craft fair season has finally hit Maine, and there were 19 events scheduled for opening weekend.

From Auburn to Lewiston to Lisbon to Jay, the cold weather is starting to get people in the holiday spirit, and craft fairs are a great way to indulge that crafty craving. 

Many tables at the fairs Saturday had Christmas and Thanksgiving decorations, sweaters and blankets, and handmade scarves to stay warm and festive.

At the Christmas for Tots Craft and Vendor Fair at American Legion Post 31, Toys for Tots donation boxes were placed at the front door. Just past the boxes was a photo opportunity with Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Plenty of craft and goods options were available, including jewelry, candles, and dog treats made by Tammy Poloquin of Picky Nicky’s Dog Treats in Poland.

“I make them myself,” Poliquin said. “They don’t have any chemicals or preservatives.”

They’re a perfect option for fall, she said, with flavors like pumpkin and sweet potato, as well as more traditional flavors, like peanut butter and chicken. 

Local artist Lisa Bonenfant had a table full of her unique hand-painted glasses, vases and ornaments.

“They’re all hand-painted,” she said. “I use enamel paint and then bake them in the oven to make sure the paint stays.”

Her favorite designs are the lighthouses and the lupines, she said.

Lisbon High School had a lot to celebrate Saturday, between its successful craft fair and its last-minute state title win. 

Local artisans and businesses, as well as a mix of specialty companies like Mary Kay, LuLaRoe, and Scentsy were in attendance. The school’s gym was packed with vendors and shoppers, and the options seemed endless. Aisles were lined with wreaths, pottery, painted ornaments and jewelry — even bacon butter — all made right in the Lisbon Falls area.

Local businesses like Woodman Hill Soap Co. and Western Maine Creations Hand Bags were also there.

And of course, several tables were allocated for Moxie drinks and apparel, as well as a few tables for Lisbon High School athletic clothing.

Paw Prints Native American Crafts had hand-painted turkey feathers done by Helen “Mrs. Bear” Jolin of Auburn. 

The Class of 2019 table was a spread of themed raffle baskets ranging from coffee to chocolate to items for dogs. 

The biggest takeaway from this weekend’s fair options? Don’t forget your dogs (and cats and hamsters) this holiday season.