Southport’s United Methodist Church is hosting its annual “Country Fair” and Lobster Roll Luncheon on Wednesday, July 17 from 9 o’clock in the morning until 2 o’clock in the afternoon at both the Church and the Town Hall, across the street. Follow Route 27 South across the Southport Bridge for 2 miles. The Church is on the left and the Town Hall on the right.

Coffee and donuts will be available on the Church porch as you arrive. Inside, our “Precious Past” section of collectibles will be displayed in the vestry. Maybe you will find that elusive piece to add to your collection! Also in the vestry, will be a wide selection of books. You will find both fiction and non-fiction, paperbacks and hardcovers. There are mysteries, suspense thrillers, popular fiction, Maine authors, vintage books, special interests, children’s literature, cookbooks, holiday, history, and how-to books! Our books, unlike their electronic counterparts, are designed to withstand summer reading hazards such as sand and sunscreen.

The back room is filled with more treasures. Our “jewelry ladies” have a great assortment of gently worn jewelry, including vintage pieces, priced to sell. There are also tables of “Attic Treasures” including glassware, dishes, kitchen items, holiday items, craft supplies, and toys. Gather an assortment of “Attic Treasures” and make an offer. No reasonable offer refused!

Across the street at the Town Hall, you’ll find more Fair and more fun! Located on the porch is the Church’s famous “Silent Auction.” It is important to note that the bidding ends at 1 p.m. You’ll find original local art, jewelry, gift certificates to local establishments, and a variety of theme baskets. Theme baskets make great hostess gifts, shower gifts, birthday gifts, etc. Do some early Christmas shopping!

Don’t forget the ever popular “Cookie Walk” located inside the Town Hall. Beginning at 9 o’clock, fill (You don’t have to get the lid on!) a coffee can with the homemade cookies of your choice. Need a dessert for supper that night? There is also the food table with many “Incredible Edibles” for sale. Pies, cakes, bars, breads, and other homemade goodies. Both the Cookie Walk and Food Table tend to be sold out before the fair ends so plan accordingly. For a finishing touch to your table, pick up some greenery from our Plant Table.

The traditional Lobster Roll Luncheon ($16) will be available from 11 o’clock until 1 o’clock in the Town Hall. Chicken salad rolls ($6) and hot dogs ($5) are also available at the luncheon. The meal price includes chips, a beverage, and homemade cake.

Come to Southport’s “Church on the Hill” and join us at the Fair! It’s been held on the third Wednesday in July for 40-something years. We’ll be there to welcome you, rain or shine. Bring your family and friends, have fun hunting for treasures at the church, bidding at the Silent Auction, selecting your cookies from the Cookie Walk, and enjoying a delicious traditional lobster roll without having to stand on the side of busy Route One. Come to see the newly restored balcony at the Southport Town Hall. It wasn’t there at last year’s Fair & Luncheon and is a very nice historical addition.