The Upstairs Artspace gallery has announced the opening of its Wonderland Holiday Bazaar, Nov. 26 at 11 a.m., with an opening reception at 6 p.m. on Dec. 6, during the 5-8 p.m. Tryon Christmas Stroll.

The Holiday Bazaar, a Tryon tradition since 1994, is known for outdoing itself each year with uniquely crafted art pieces in a variety of mediums and price ranges. It is a major fundraiser for the non-profit gallery and a destination for the discriminating shopper.

“It gets better every year,” says Upstairs board member and Wonderland organizer, Mary Prioleau. “We have attracted artists from a larger region than ever before, including Highlands and Matthews as well as Asheville, Greenville and Tryon, and they have created stunning and original pieces in all price ranges.”

In addition to jewelry, pottery and hand-loomed textiles, there are turned wooden bowls and serving utensils, dolls, art glass and more, according to Prioleau.

“It is the place to begin and end your holiday shopping, the one place you can be guaranteed to find those special uniquely creative gifts for everyone on your list.”

The holiday show has added an exciting new element this year with the Tryon Downtown Development Association’s Christmas ornament display and auction.

The Christmas tree, hung with original signed ornaments of area artists, will stand in the gallery’s front window with the silent auction beginning on the night of the Christmas Stroll and ending with a reception and final bids on Dec. 14.

The Wonderland Holiday Bazaar will be open during regular gallery hours, 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday, and during the bazaar on Sundays from 1-4 p.m.  It will close at 4 p.m. on Dec. 24.

For more information, call the gallery at 828-859-2828, or visit the gallery’s website, www.upstairsartspace.org.

The gallery is located at 49 S. Trade Street, Tryon.

– article by Clare O’Sheel