After taking three years off due to the pandemic, Temple Israel welcomed back some favorite local craftspeople, artists and vendors — plus the shoppers who also make the event possible — to its annual Holiday Fest last Sunday, Dec. 4 (pictured at left). Most vendors reported sales were brisk at the bazaar.

According to Temple Israel board member Kimberlee MacVicar, “We had to rebuild some muscle memory we lost over the three years’ hiatus. Still, everything went smoothly!”

Popular vendors including Alameda’s homemade preserves specialist, “The Jam Guy,” and the caterer, Gather & Grub, reportedly sold out of their inventory. Among the vendors was a young artist who promised his proceeds would go to create soccer scholarships.

Other vendors sold handmade crochet items, cards and stationery, soaps and candles, while literary types were treated to tables with titles by three local authors.

All in all, the best part was community members reconnecting after the years of separation in the name of keeping everyone healthy.