Since October is a busy month for treasure hunters, I’m here to give you a heads-up on several events you won’t want to miss.
Next Saturday, make a point of attending the 35th annual Pumpkin Patch Boutique. A few years back, a sage collector told me she would “rearrange her schedule at any cost” to be at this sale. I’d say, “Heed her advice.”
All year long, the dedicated volunteers at the San Jose auxiliary of the Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital save their best donations for the yearly extravaganza.
Among the goodies featured this go-round is a group of pre-1960 toys, some in their original wrappers, and an abundance of linens. You’ll find all sorts of vintage kitchen stuff, glass, pottery, porcelain, banks, dishes, silver, jewelry and books. And it’s all priced to go. These folks want you to get a good buy.
Line up early at the First Congregational Church, 1980 Hamilton Ave. (at Leigh Avenue), San Jose. Hours: 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Admission: $2. Lunch is available from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Cost: $10. The food must be awfully good; they always seem to run out just as I’m ready to line up. Details: (408) 294-4490.
The same day in Watsonville, All Saints’ Episcopal Church sponsors its fourth annual Antiques and Collectibles Faire. Vendors from far and near come to this lovely five-acre setting offering a fine array of merchandise. Hours: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission and parking are free.
As in past years, reasonably priced, home-cooked fare is available. And the Electric Blue House Band will perform from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
There is also a preview party Friday from 5 to 8 p.m. Admission is $20; $15 in advance. You get wine, savories and sweets, as well as the chance to preview the goods.
The fun goes on at All Saints’ Episcopal Church, 437 Rogers Ave. (at Martinelli), Watsonville. To make preview reception reservations and receive more information, call (831) 724-5338.
On Oct. 14, several hundred antiques dealers will set up along the streets of downtown Pleasanton for the Fall Antiques Street Faire. This is one of the last major antiques shows of the calendar year and an ideal time to start your holiday shopping.
If I may, allow me to remind you about that adage concerning the early bird catching the worm. At the show held last May, I dillydallied way too long, which resulted in my losing an item I wanted. Savvy shoppers arrive way before advertised show times.
Hours for this festival: 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission and parking are free. Information: (760) 724-9400.
And don’t forget the Fall Antique Americana Country and Folk Art Show on Oct. 21. This event has become one of the most popular with serious Bay Area collectors.
It’s the kind I grew up with while living in upstate New York, but here in California it is a novelty. At this gala you’ll encounter tons of 19th century American antiques. There will be oodles of great furniture, toys, redware pottery, crocks, coverlets, early photos, silver, clocks, paintings and all sorts of high-quality objects.
The show is held at the Hillview Community Center, 97 Hillview Ave., Los Altos. Hours: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Serious buyers come at 10 a.m. A $9 entry fee gets you in early. Regular admission starts at 11 a.m. and runs $6. And let me tell you, legions pay the extra $3. For specifics, dial (831) 479-4404, or visit www.californiacountryshow.com.
A SAD CLOSING: A couple of years ago, this column touted the centennial of Fenton Art Glass. Recently, however, the company based in Williamstown, W. Va., announced its closure because of the high cost of natural gas, overseas competition and changing consumer habits.
Founded in 1905 and still family owned, Fenton may be best known for its handmade colored art glass. A separate gift shop (owned by another company) is scheduled to remain open.
The Fenton family will liquidate remaining stock and plans to organize a permanent exhibit to pay homage to the legendary American glassmaker. For more information, see www.fentonartglass.com. .
Contact Steven Wayne Yvaska at steve.yvaska@sbcglobal.net or write to him in care of the San Jose Mercury News, Silicon Valley Life, 750 Ridder Park Drive, San Jose, Calif. 95190. Read Yvaska’s columns at www.mercurynews.com/steveyvaska.