THE WINTER SENIOR BAZAAR

By Harrison J. Bahe

The Yavapai News | hjbahe@fmyn.org | (480) 789 – 7124

On December 3, 2025, the Fort McDowell Senior Center hosted its annual Winter Senior Bazaar. Elders from across the community set up vendor tables to sell a variety of handmade items, including pillows, blankets, desserts, cookies, dresses, and beadwork. One of the cutest offerings was a collection of miniature Pendleton-style jackets designed for lap dogs.

The event also featured an array of traditional foods like frybread, stew, menudo, tamales, and chili beans which quickly became the main attraction. The vendor serving these dishes consistently drew the longest line.

Originally scheduled at the Recreation Center, the bazaar was relocated to the Senior Center due to a sewage leak. Senior Center Manager Stefanie “Muffy” Camacho said her team had to act fast the morning of the event. “We got the call that we had to relocate to the Senior Center, and of course you go into panic mode,” she said.

Despite the last-minute venue change, attendance remained strong. Several elders even had to pack up early after selling out their entire inventory. “I’m very, very impressed, and I’m so happy to see so many people come out and support the elders. It was wonderful!” Camacho shared.

For those who missed this Winter Senior Bazaar, Camacho is already planning a Spring Senior Bazaar for March or April 2026.