On Saturday, Dec. 14, the Pequea Valley Cemeteries division of the Wreaths Across America program will lay more than 2,800 wreaths on the graves of veterans in 28 Octorara- and Pequea Valley-area cemeteries.

To foot the bill for all those wreaths, which is fast approaching $50,000 a year, the organization holds a number of annual fundraisers, including a bingo and golf outing. This year, for the first time, a craft and vendor show will be held on Saturday, Nov. 2, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the Gap Fire Company, 802 Pequea Ave., Gap.

"It's our first year, but we are hoping to make it annual," said Deb Plum, who is working with Paula Diem to organize the event. Plum first suggested the event to Diem, noting, "I said it might be fun to do." Plum, who has now gathered more than 20 crafters and vendors to take part in the event, added, "It's going over well."

Among the vendors Plum has lined up are those selling packaged food items and cooking gear, along with crafters making crocheted items or working with glass or wood. Candles, pumpkin rolls, and chocolate-covered foods will be among the items offered for sale, along with dried flowers, jewelry, and clothing. Diem noted that a few young entrepreneurs will be selling their wares at the show. "They will share a space," said Plum of the two brothers who make dog treats to sell and the young lady who creates beaded pens.

Prizes and giveaways will also be part of the event. "Vendors will each donate an item to be (given away)," said Plum. Diem added that fall and Christmas decor items will also be among the prizes.

Hungry attendees will find a variety of food items prepared and sold by the Gap Fire Company, including breakfast sandwiches, lunch items, and beverages.

Wreaths Across America places wreaths on the graves of veterans every holiday season to remember and honor those who served in the military and teach others, especially children, about the value of freedom. The Pequea Valley Cemeteries program will be held on Saturday, Dec. 14, at the Pequea Valley Intermediate School (PVIS), 166 S. New Holland Road, Kinzers. The event will begin with a ceremony at noon, and then wreaths will be distributed to more than 300 volunteers to be placed on graves.

"We used to take a bus to Arlington every year and lay wreaths," explained Plum, "but then we decided to do this locally." Diem recalled that the first year the effort was held, about 1,250 wreaths were placed on local graves.

Readers who would like more information about the craft and vendor show or the area Wreaths Across America program may search for "Wreaths Across America - Pequea Valley Cemeteries" on Facebook.