November has arrived, bringing cooler temperatures, shorter days, and the last of the colorful fall leaves. As we turn our calendars to a new month, the holiday season is just around the corner, and our local communities are gearing up for craft fairs, holiday shopping and seasonal celebrations. 

November is also a time to reflect on all we have to be thankful for, from family and friends to the wonderful community we call home. 

With Thanksgiving just a few weeks away, it's the perfect time to slow down, appreciate the little things, and support the local businesses and organizations that make our area so special.

Take a look at what’s happening around town:

The Foster­dale United Methodist Church will host its Holiday Craft Fair on Saturday, November 7, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 3088–3284 State Route 17B in Foster­dale. Get a head start on your holiday shopping while supporting local crafters, artisans and small businesses! Shoppers will find a variety of handmade goods, home décor, jewelry, candles, woodwork, resin and plaster creations, holiday items and more. There will also be a bake sale featuring delicious homemade treats and a 50/50 drawing, with proceeds benefiting the church. Everyone is welcome to stop by, browse, shop local and enjoy a little holiday cheer!
Delaware Valley Opera has a great lineup of live music planned for November at its Lake Huntington venue, with three performances featuring talented singer-songwriters from a variety of musical backgrounds.

The month kicks off on Saturday, November 7, with Rupert Wates performing from 7–9 p.m. A multi-award-winning singer-songwriter, Wates combines unforgettable songs with virtuosic guitar playing. His music draws from folk, jazz and classical influences, creating a style that is uniquely his own. Known for songs that are witty, thoughtful and moving, Wates has spent years performing on the road and connecting with audiences through his music.

On Saturday, November 14, Davey O. takes the stage from 7–9 p.m. The Buffalo-born singer-songwriter has been described as a songwriter with a journalist’s eye for detail and a poet’s ear for language. His Americana-inspired music explores the beauty and challenges of everyday life through carefully crafted songs and stories. With a warm voice and engaging performance style, Davey O. brings an intimate, thoughtful approach to the stage.

The weekend continues Sunday, November 15, when Jesse Ruben performs from 2–4 p.m. Ruben is a singer-songwriter who recently moved to Atlanta after spending the last 15 years in Brooklyn. His music has been featured on more than 75 million streams, and his song “This Is Why I Need You” has reached the top 10 in 12 different countries. His songs have also been featured on television programs including One Tree Hill, Pretty Little Liars and Teen Mom.

Tickets for each performance are $20 in advance or $26 at the door. The Delaware Valley Opera is located at 6692 State Route 52 in Lake Huntington. For tickets and additional information, visit myrivertickets.com or call 845-887-3083. With three different artists taking the stage over two weekends, November offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy live music close to home.

If you have a local business that would like to be spotlighted in an upcoming column, please get in touch! Please email jenn@jennpowelldesigns.com with any news, events, and happenings. You can also find me online at https://rustic-road.com/