SANDPOINT — Some people began Christmas shopping months ago, their gifts already packaged and sent off to loved ones or wrapped and under the tree. 

Others, however, will wait until the last minute, running out to the stores on Christmas Eve, still unsure of what to buy. But there is hope for those who waited. Lake Pend Oreille High School is hosting its Christmas Arts and Crafts Fair next Saturday with plenty of gift ideas for the holiday stragglers.

"We are going with the theme of 'Christmas shopping procrastinators,'" said Randy Wilhelm, career-technical education instructor at LPOHS.

The idea came to LPOHS staff after Leata Judd, local artist and long-time volunteer in Wilhelm's art class, mentioned that she had some artwork laying around and suggested an arts and crafts show. With the upcoming holiday, they decided to center it around Christmas, giving people a chance to pick up some last-minute gifts.

Judd, who is best known for her papier mache and clay creations, will be one of several vendors at the event. Brenda Woodward, LPOHS science teacher, said local farmers market vendors will be in attendance with their crafts, soaps, succulent plants and more. 

While the name of the event only indicates arts and crafts, there will be "fine foods" available as well, including Woodward's homemade jam. Rand Rosecrans' culinary arts class is making some food for the event, including soup, chili and bread bowls.

"Part of it is to give people a place to do their last-minute Christmas shopping ... but we are also hoping to make this an annual event," Woodward said. "I see it as maybe being able to showcase some of the student projects as well."

Wilhelm said it is also a chance for LPOHS to build a bridge with the community. Some of the students should be there, he said, and there will be music and, of course, plenty of food and gift ideas.

The arts and crafts fair will be open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 16, in the LPOHS gym, 1005 N. Boyer Ave.

Mary Malone can be reached by email at mmalone@bonnercountydailybee.com and follow her on Twitter @MaryDailyBee.