Bear’s Mill Candlelight Walk & Open House

The Friends of Bear’s Mill invite the community to share in an evening filled with the sights and sounds of the holidays at their annual Candlelight Walk & Open House at historic Bear’s Mill on Saturday, December 7 from 6 to 10 p.m. This event is free to the public. Donations are greatly appreciated.

“Bundle up the family and come take a stroll along the millrace that is lit up by the warm glow of luminaries,” said Merri Niekamp, Outreach Manager for The Friends of Bear’s Mill non-profit organization. “Awaiting you is a country bonfire in the woods with straw bales for resting while you roast your hot dogs and marshmallows and sip hot cocoa. The Mill and the Greenville Creek provide a natural backdrop for a winter bonfire and a fun, family holiday event. Inside the Mill, enjoy a cup of gourmet coffee while you listen to Ted Yoder playing holiday classics on the hammered dulcimer,” she concluded.

In addition to the stoneground flours and meals, the Mill Store offers kitchen and gourmet goods as well as Boston Stoker coffees, Bakehouse Breads and homemade holiday candies and treats. Home décor, giftware and women’s accessories are also available for sale. “Enjoy a walk and visit to the bonfire and then come inside to shop the Mill Store and Gallery,” stated Julie Clark, Retail & Gallery Manager. “Gifts from Bear’s Mill offer you the opportunity to give something special from your hometown. Our coffee, pancake and popcorn gift boxes are ready prepared or we can assist you in putting together a gift box or basket for that special person or family on your list. We offer gift wrapping and shipping services too,” Clark explained.

The gallery at Bear’s Mill will feature the December artists and final ‘Art at the Mill’ exhibit for 2013. On display will be the photography by local photojournalist Jim Witmer and clay sculpture by David Kirchner. A new selection of handmade pottery by the Bear’s Mill potters and friends will be on display and available for gift-giving as well. Indiana native, Ted Yoder will be playing holiday favorites on the hammered dulcimer in the Mill Store & Gallery throughout the course of the evening.

“This time of year reminds us to be thankful that this piece of history is here for our community to enjoy,” said Friends of Bear’s Mill president Ray Lepore. “When a visitor gives a donation or makes a purchase, they are helping to keep the Mill open. Tax-deductible donations and profit from sales in the Mill Store & Gallery are vital to the non-profit organization,” concluded Lepore.

Bear’s Mill is located at 6450 Arcanum-Bear’s Mill Road, about 5 miles east of Greenville. For more information, contact Bear’s Mill at 937-548-5112 or visit the web at www.bearsmill.com

PHOTO INFO: Seasonal celebrations at historic Bear’s Mill include the annual Candlelight Walk & Open House