Do Your Christmas Shopping in July

Bethel

With its proximity to Sunday River and its ample winter sport facilities, including the cross-country skiing trails at the Bethel Inn, this inland village is not the first place you might think to go on a hot summer day. But on this Saturday you’ll find more than fifty artists and artisans showcasing and selling their work on the Bethel Common, across from the bright yellow Bethel Inn at the nineteenth annual Bethel Art Fair. You’ll find everything from wall-hung art, sculpture, and pottery to handmade fine jewelry, woodenware, photography, and more — there’s something for everyone and for every budget. From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. bring your own lawn chair and listen to the sounds of the Jim McLaughlin Jazz Quartet and sample some of the food from local vendors. Kids will enjoy the ongoing art activities, the puppet show, and the juggler on stilts. If you didn’t get enough fireworks on the Fourth, look for some more here at dusk. 207-824-2282. www.bethelmaine.com