We didn't have to go out in the sub-freezing, snowy night.Last year (albeit in slightly warmer and dryer weather), we went to almost all the Victorian Christmas (Nevada City) and Cornish Christmas (Grass Valley) street fairs--there are 5 each. They aren't that different from each other, nor are they so very different from the summer street fairs--we just like that so many people come together and hang out, eating fun food, listening to music and hawking their crafts. We like being two of them.
This year, because of our schedules, we can only attend one of each. Last night was Victorian Christmas. The town is all lit up (including the lovely homes nearby) and the Christmas tree lady walks around and gives candy to kids.
I like that a little cold weather doesn't seem to affect the attendance, though the icy streets/sidewalks make it a bit more of a challenge to get to where the action is without landing hard on one's keaster. The slow summer saunter along the rows of booths and shops becomes more of a brisk, purposeful march, with quick glances at most of the different products for sale, stopping rarely (at the hot-cider station, preferably)!How the Salvation Army Brass Band guys don't stick to their instruments, I can't say. Seems like it would be a bit like putting your tongue on a flagpole. And don't get me started on the kids playing guitars and fiddles with no gloves.
So, will tomorrow evening find us at the Cornish version? Probably. It's become a tradition, already. But we may put on even extra layers, and try to walk just a little more slowly past the booths selling fancy soaps and candle holders.
