Community Corner

A Picturesque Haven for Last-Minute Shopping & Santa Seekers

Wagner Farm Arboretum in Warren open extended hours on Saturday and Sunday, with special attractions on Saturday.

Yes Virginia, there is a more tranquil and picturesque place where you can conduct the final wrapping on your holiday shopping than crowded shopping malls — and the Holiday Boutique at the Wagner Farm Arboretum in Warren Township illustrated that possibility.

Although Saturday, when Santa arrives, is sure to be more crowded, there were only a few people — some chatting with volunteers or featured photographer Steve Byland at the boutique on Friday.

Standing near handcrafted soaps and scents, shopper Bonnie DelVacchio of Basking Ridge said she drops by at the Holiday Boutique ever year.

"There's original things," she said. "It's things that artist would do — not run of the mill," she said, surrounded by jewelry, decorations, kids handmade clothing and more.

The final two days of this year's Holiday Boutique at Wagner Farm Arboretum in Warren means extended hours of 10 to 5 p.m. for Friday through Sunday, the return of some of the vendors of the arboretum's farmers market and a rescheduled visit by Santa on Saturday.

Along with unique gifts and artwork, Paolo's Kitchen, Gourmet Nuts and Dried Fruits and possibly a pizza truck will be on hand for Saturday, said Ann Marie McGowan, assistant at the arboretum.

Meanwhile, Santa, originally scheduled for a snowy day last Saturday Wagner Farm Arboretum's Holiday Boutique, has been rescheduled for this Saturday at the boutique inside the arboretum in Warren Township.

The creative touch for the items in the shop will extend to Santa's meet-and-greet location, too. Lisa Young, a trustee at the non-profit arboretum, painted the backdrop. Meanwhile, volunteer Michael Enad made a full-size sled where Santa and his visitors can sit.

Families who wish to visit Santa either can just show up to buy tickets or purchase the tickets online.

Santa will be at the Holiday Boutique from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday. The $10 tickets, which contributes to fundraising for the preserved township-owned arboretum, includes the visit with Santa, a gift for the child, and a photo to keep, according to the arboretum.


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