Pilgrim Place Festival

Just in case anyone might think that Binghamton was the only place that had really hokey festivals, or that my addiction to them was time/place-specific, behold the most awesomest (yes, I meant to write that) festival of all- the annual Pilgrim Place Festival in Claremont, CA.

Pilgrim Place is a beautiful community: a gracefully laid-out neighborhood of low-rise pre-WWII looking California bungalows- that I literally stumbled across while jogging in California. It was so lovely that I had to inquire further, and I found that it is a retirement community for those who have served in religious and/or charitable careers. It seems to attract a super-educated crowd of really interesting people who have lived all over the world, e.g., PhDs who worked as missionaries. These people are drawn to Claremont probably for the proximity to the Claremont Colleges and the Claremont School of Theology, where they sometimes guest lecture.

I admit to posting the corniest of photos, but the Festival really does beat all. Basically, these "Pilgrims" (and yes, they all dress up like Pilgrims and they even call each other "Pilgrim"!!) work all year at their handicrafts (woodworking, pottery, stained glass, painting) and sell the stuff at rock bottom prices to raise money for those among them who need subsidy. Win/Win and damn good Christmas shopping!

It is just a bonus that there is a corny side to the event, too. This guy was the best. John's photo is much better than the one I've posted, so here is his.