An Herbal Wonderland

Carols and Crumpets, hosted by the Tulsa Herb Society, will be held at the Tulsa Garden Center on Saturday, December 7 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Tulsa Herb Society members (L to R) Bonita Watts, Patsy Wynn, Kay Schleuter and Eve Joseph.

Imagine walking into a winter wonderland where fairies, herbal crafts and delicious condiments dance in your head; you smell lavender, ­rosemary and taste chocolate treats. This is a place where everyone knows your name and welcomes you with ­cheerful smiles and open arms. You’ve just arrived at Carols and Crumpets, an herb craft fair described as a highly anticipated event, and indeed it is magical!

    This year, Carols and Crumpets is Saturday, December 7 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Tulsa Garden Center, 2435 S. Peoria. The event is in the historic garden center where the auditorium, south room, and halls are turned into a whimsical ­shopping wonderland. There are vendors from Oklahoma, Kansas, Arkansas and Missouri who join together to celebrate the holidays early.

    Patsy Wynn, event co-chair, says Carols and Crumpets has a wonderful following. Tulsans and ­

like-minded friends from ­surrounding communities form lines before the 8 a.m. opening in rain, sleet and snow to be the first in the doors to find warm beverages, tasty treats and unique ­handmade gifts waiting in the Tulsa Garden Center.

    The Tulsa Herb Society’s own members spend the entire year turning creative ideas into new cooking and crafting projects. Lois Galpin and the cooking committee promise tasty creations never tried before, but simply ­wonderful. Their vinegars are always a favorite, along with the chutneys that will be ­available in a multitude of ­flavors, so expect your palate to be pleased. Eve Joseph, event co-chair, and the ­crafting committee spend countless hours on delicate hand-made novelties.

    A few years ago the Tulsa Herb Society started two ­separate booths using their ingenuity and finesse. The greenery booth has ­mushroomed into a holiday decorating corner. The raffle booth offers shoppers an opportunity to buy tickets for the chance to win a one-of-a-kind handmade felt Christmas tree. It’s the ­perfect holiday gift with its unique design and ­craftsmanship.

    Vendors rejoice each year with their own special flair. Expect to find fresh and dried herbs and spices, vintage items, native crafts, ­primitives, steampunk ­jewelry, original art, gift cards, pottery, glassware, ­candles, soaps, lotions, ­clothing and chocolate. Did I mention fairies; they too will be there.

    After a morning of ­shopping the place to sit and chat with friends is the Snowflake Café, open at 11 a.m. for great noshing and restful conversations.

    This year the Tulsa Herb Society is celebrating their 25th anniversary by inviting you to this very special Carols and Crumpets. The ­admission is free, the ­atmosphere cozy and the scents exceptionally delicious. For more information contact (918) 289-6217 or visit www.tulsaherb.com.

    A portion of proceeds benefits the Tulsa Garden Center and Linnaeus Teaching Garden.

For more information, contact

Tulsa Herb Society

(918) 289-6217

www.tulsaherb.com