OSBURN — The leaves have turned, and frost dusts the mountain peaks, which means one thing: the Osburn Craft Fair is just around the corner. 

Now in its 43rd year, the fair has long served as a gateway to the holiday season, offering shoppers a chance to support local vendors and get a head start on buying gifts.

“I think people look forward to the Osburn Craft Fair every year because it kicks off the holiday season and has all the holiday feels,” said Becca Holehan, coordinator for the Silver Valley Chamber. “The Osburn Craft Fair is a great place to start your Christmas shopping or to treat yourself.” 

The Silver Valley Chamber has taken over organizing duties and is seeking vendors to fill the halls and gymnasium of Silver Hills Elementary School. 

Following Bambi McKay's passing in 2014, the fair changed hands several times over the years. There were even rumors that it could disappear entirely, but several people and groups stepped up to ensure the fair endured.

“I can remember coming to the craft fair with my mom and looking at all of the cool things made by these amazing people, and I couldn’t see that go away,” said previous organizer Ashlee Myles. 

Each year, the fair showcases handcrafted goods, including homemade jams, breads, pies, soaps and books by local authors.

“My favorite part of the event is knowing that it supports our community — from our talented vendors to nonprofit booths, and even some of the local youth programs,” Holehan said. “Silver Hills PTO will be cooking some amazing food, and the Wallace Cheer Squad has helped work this event for the last four years. I would like to see our vendors sell out. I would love for the community to come out and make a special point to help our vendors sell out of all of their items.” 

The Osburn Craft Fair runs Nov. 1-2 at Silver Hills Elementary School. Saturday hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday hours are 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. 

Info: Silver Valley Chamber at 208-784-0821, or [email protected]