Local gift shopping opportunities
This time of year beckons people around the world to consider gifting, a tradition as old as human life on the planet. With at least 10 holidays around the world celebrated between mid-November through the new year, there are lots of opportunities to show we care.
Be inspired! Consider unique gifts while supporting creative local businesses and events!
Painted Bear
10550 Ute Pass Ave., Green Mountain Falls
When you see a small chalet-style building on the main street of Green Mountain Falls, pull in and take a look at this unique treasure trove of aspen-filled landscape paintings, holiday ornaments, antique knick-knacks, hiking treats, wood carvings, visual and abstract art, T-shirts, specialty gift items, and more.
Margaret and Mike Frey purchased the building five years ago with the intent to “cutesy up the town.” They provide a warm and welcoming space for local art as well as a community space for local musicians (Friday evenings in summer). Margaret offers children and adult art classes, craft parties and other community events in the beautiful alcove down by the creek, in front of the store and in other locations.
Legend has it that this place, built in the 1950s, housed a drive-up ice cream cafe and a liquor store in its past. At one point, a car drove through the front windows!
Enjoy additional discounts and beverages at their “Sip n’ Shop” 4-7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 24. On Saturday, Dec. 9, Painted Bear will host an outdoor Christmas Party, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., with a warm fire, s’mores and an opportunity to paint ornaments, weather permitting.
The lion’s share of Painted Bear’s proceeds support life in a small village outside of Nairobi, Kenya, through a Franciscan ministry. So far, donations have supported a new church, an orphanage and youth education.
Painted Bear is open 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays through Dec. 9, and by appointment. Call 719-684-7864 to arrange a convenient time with Margaret.
Stones, Bones & Wood
6970 Lake St., Green Mountain Falls
Ken and Melissa Nord have offered locals and tourists a unique glimpse into Colorado arts, artists and crafters during their 21 years of owning Stones, Bones & Wood specialty gift shop near the gazebo and the famous Pantry restaurant.
The building was constructed in the 1920s, and its history includes housing Edward’s Groceries, Green Mountain Gift & Turquoise and a doll shop. Inside, you’ll find beautifully arranged shelves full of turned-wood pieces, luminaries, pottery, unique cards, jewelry, textiles, crystal and mineral specimens, paintings, socks, bags, T-shirts, wall art, Green Mountain Falls garb and more.
Stones, Bones & Wood is open daily. Information: stonesbonesandwood.com or 719-684-2291.
Yule Day & Tree Lighting Ceremony
Noon-6:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2, Green Mountain Falls
“Green Box is excited to expand (their) community offerings beyond the annual Summer Festival. Providing opportunities for residents and visitors to gather, explore and participate in arts-related activities is at the core of our mission, and we are thrilled to add Yule Day to our offerings this year,” Executive Director Scott Levy said.
The schedule:
Noon-5 p.m. — Christmas Market, Joyland Church with Grilled Cheese food truck until 3 p.m. 10605 Green Mountain Falls Road.
Noon-2 p.m. — Ornament painting with Margaret Frey of the Painted Bear, Green Box Workshop Studio No. 6. 6990 Lake St.
2-3 p.m. — Santa at the Skyspace for photos and wishes. Free ATV rides available. 10392 El Paso Ave.
3 p.m. — Yule Log Hunt with Santa begins from the Skyspace. 10392 El Paso Ave.
4-7 p.m. — Peak Crepe food truck, Green Box Workshop. 6990 Lake St.
4:15-5:15 p.m. — Cocoa and community, Church in the Wildwood, with sing-along. 10585 Ute Pass Ave.
5:30 p.m. — Tree lighting and caroling, Gazebo Park
5:30-6:30 p.m. — Nightcaps with Santa, Green Box Workshop, with beverages, s’mores and photos with Santa. 6990 Lake St.
Yule Day is presented by Green Box Arts in partnership with the town of Green Mountain Falls, Church in the Wildwood, Joyland Church and the Painted Bear. Information: greenboxarts.org,
Send news and/or photos to judypiazza@gmail.com.