Like busy elves, the clients, staff and volunteers at The Blind Center in Washington are working diligently to prepare for the upcoming Kris Kringle Craft Show.

The annual event is slated for Dec. 7-8, according to center director Christie Moler. Friday hours are noon to 6 p.m. and the event runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday.

The event showcases a wide variety of handcrafted items created by the center’s clients and volunteers, including the popular sock monkeys, baskets, holiday decorations, foot stools, printed note cards and Christmas tree ornaments. Also on hand will be vendors from throughout the area selling everything from textiles to jewelry. Moler advised everyone to arrive hungry because the concession booth will be well stocked with white bean chicken chili, baked goods and beverages.

A new element to the show will be photos with Santa Claus. Each photo will be $5 with all proceeds benefiting The Blind Center since photographer Michael Cutler is donating not only his talents but supplies as well, according to Moler.

The Blind Center will help residents of Washington ring in the holiday season Dec. 1 during the traditional Christmas parade. Volunteers will man a booth on the steps of The Bank Bistro and sell hot chocolate, coffee and baked treats.

The center is getting back to its roots, noted Moler.

“The Blind Center is a way for the community to support people who have visual impairments,” she said. “I think of it as a community center because we have volunteers, staff and clients all working together.”

Meanwhile, a bit of early Christmas shopping can be done in the center’s gift shops. Hours of operation are Mondays through Thursdays, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The Blind Center is located at 221 N. Harvey St. in Washington. For more information, call 252-946-6208 or email director@theblindcenter.org.