Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Bazaar?
A major church fundraiser. A lively community social event. A great chance to get more involved in the church and meet people. A tradition begun in 1959!

What is the Art Fair?
A juried show featuring around 20 local artists and artisans working in many mediums, such as pottery, glass, fiber arts, photography, painting, woodworking, jewelry, and more! Artists apply to get in and pay for booth space. Is all of that art super expensive? No! Although some items might be higher cost and one-of-a-kind treasures, there will be a wide range of items for sale at different prices, smaller prints of original works, etc.

How big is the Bazaar?
The Bazaar covers the first floor of the church. Local artists and artisans fill the Meeting Room. Fellowship Hall holds congregation-sponsored booths (especially the Gourmet Galaxy and the Cookie Cruise) and our UU Café. The hallways hold booths run by some of our Social Justice Task Forces. Rooms 104, 106, and 108 overflow with books and the unexpected treasures of the White Elephant‘s Trunk. Our well-known Bazaar attracts visitors from throughout the Bloomington community and beyond.

What will I find at the Bazaar?
You will find homemade baked goods, hand-knits, affordable gifts, yummy lunch offerings and a Lasagna Dinner on Friday, a giant used book sale, and the White Elephant rummage sale - our congregation cleans out their closets to donate all sorts of household items big and small, and you never know what treasures you will find!

What is the Gourmet Galaxy?
A booth in Fellowship Hall selling wonderful home-made breads, pies, pickles, candies, jam, etc, contributed by the congregation.

How does the Cookie Cruise work?
Imagine a looooong table filled with plate after plate of homemade cookies of every variety, yours to peruse and purchase by the pound. We offer boxes of different sizes for you to fill up -- the only tough thing is deciding.

Can I eat at the Bazaar?
Lunch and dinner are served at the congregation-staffed café in Fellowship Hall. Lunch features sandwiches, superb soup, masterful chili, and homemade pies. On Friday night bring the whole family to enjoy a delicious and nutritious lasagna dinner with UU friends.

How can I help?
Contribute baked goods, books, and White Elephants, and volunteer your time before, during, and right after the Bazaar. There will be volunteer signup sheets after the Sunday services in November in Fellowship Hall and an online signup sheet as well. Most volunteer shifts last two hours. There are all kinds of jobs! No job, no contribution is too small. The Bazaar cannot happen without your help! More than 100 volunteers make things hum!

May I work more than one shift?
Absolutely!

Is there child care for Bazaar volunteers?
Unfortunately, no, but responsible children may work with their parents on a volunteer shift.

What if I am not a UU member?
Friends and newcomers are welcome to participate in all aspects of the Bazaar! Working at the Bazaar is a good way to meet people, help the church, and see what we’re all about.

The Bazaar is a fine example of how lots of people working together, each doing their small but important part, combine do something great. Please join us!