It's bazaar but we like it !

Chutneys and jams, original prints, handmade jewellery, local crafts and teen accessories are the highlights for the annual American Women's Association's (AWA) bazaar this year.

Called Crystal Bazaar - to commemorate its 15th anniversary - the overriding theme of the event remains traditional.

It takes place this coming Saturday afternoon from noon to 5pm at the Bapco Club in Awali and will feature locally-made accessories that that can make excellent souvenirs and gifts for the folks back home.

Chairperson Betty Niemann, from Awali, who has been associated with the event since 1993, said that it promises once again to be a homely family event supporting local artisans and charities.

She said: "The types of things that will be available in abundance are small items that can be easily tucked into the corner of a suitcase or handbag.

"These are unique locally-produced items that can rarely be found in shops. The prices are reasonable and we try to stress on quality and uniqueness, which has helped build up the event's reputation through the years.

"There will be Nasaej traditional embroidery, diyaas (Indian lamps) and handmade crafts, Bahraini traditional felt ornaments, traditional table covers and handmade items with a pet theme.

"There will be a lot of homemade jewellery stalls that have items made of fused glass and silver and quite a few tables of custom sets. It will be interesting to see the diversity and creativity of the vendors who are both Bahraini and expatriate women making jewellery as a hobby.

"AWA will be selling jewellery bags so you can also buy them to put these ornaments in and give them away as a gift."

The food stalls will sell pretzels and chutneys, jams and marmalade, cup cakes and cakes. At the Bapco Club the coffee shop will serve lunch and dinner. Accessories for teenagers will be on sale from the 'Sweet 6teen' section.

Betty added: "It will be a unique shopping experience that provides a wide variety of gift items or for your personal use. Moreover, with a 500 fils entrance fee you support 22 charities that the AWA supports or provides assistance to.

"The Bapco Club is easy to get to if you come down the highway. The venue is nice; it's cosy and quaint. There is good parking, and the club does a very nice job of providing food and it is worth the trip.

"Visitors will be pleasantly surprised how in this heat you can get a lot of nice things in a cool place."

The AWA Art group will also be offering a hands-on painting opportunity for children.

Entrance to the bazaar for children under five is free with an accompanying adult.