by Timothy Rutt
One of the sure first signs of the holiday season in Altadena is the Pasadena Waldorf School Elves' Faire on the Saturday before Thanksgiving weekend.
This year, the 27th Faire will be on Sat., Nov. 17 at the school's campus at 209 E. Mariposa St. in Altadena, from 10 AM-4 PM. Admission is free.
The wooded Waldorf School campus, site of the historic Scripps Mansion, will become a fairy wonderland with food, crafts, activities, entertainment, and the chance to buy one-of-a-kind gifts and holiday items. About 4,000 people attend the Faire every year.
Faire activities encompass all ages, from the "Pixie Party" with versions of the games and crafts for the younger set, to jousting, a rope maze, and a photo studio for older children. There is also entertainment, from music to storytelling on several stages throughout the day.
There is also shopping: grownups can look at the silent auction, and the younger children can visit "The Angel Room," a place to do their holiday shopping for the family accompanied by an 8th grade Waldorf school "angel."
The Elves' Faire is also a zero-waste event, with compostable dishes and utensils at the many food vendors. Water is free, although you are asked to bring your own cup.
