The Joint Base Lewis-McChord Holiday Bazaar, as organized and hosted by the Lewis Community Spouses' Club (LCSC), is back and bigger than ever before. Despite not holding the bazaar last year due to the club's reorganization, vendors have been clamoring to reserve their spots for the two-day event, which kicks off Nov. 3.

Thus far, there are more than 100 vendors signed up, and the bazaar has actually had to branch out to accommodate all of the sellers and their wares. As a result, there will be booths in the AFC Arena at 2275 Liggett Ave. on JBLM Main and the Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) Tent, located adjacently.

"There are gifts and items available in every price range," said Pam Lanthier, LCSC member and chairperson for the bazaar. "This is a great way to start your holiday shopping, and over 50 percent of the vendors are affiliated with the military."

Shop for one-of-a-kind crafts, like woodcarvings, knits and paintings, or go for the sentimental and unique by purchasing a hand-blown glass heart from Hearts of Hope for the Military. That particular artist - the mother of a Soldier - has pledged to donate one heart for every one sold to a wounded warrior.

In addition to being a fun weekend activity, the event is one of the largest fundraisers for the LCSC, which is comprised of both officer and enlisted Servicemember spouses.

"Each year we raise funds to benefit the military personnel and their families, both on and off base," Lanthier said. "Some of the organizations that we have helped this year include the Lewis Family Member Scholarship Fund; Clarkmoor PTO; Communities in Schools of Lakewood; Good Samaritan Foundation; Mann Middle School; Steilacoom Co-op Preschool; Yelm High School; and the National Military Family Association."

The silent auction is also a way to generate funds and features more than 20 baskets of goodies donated by units and groups on base. Profits generated from the silent auction go directly into the LCSC welfare fund.

Representatives from Santa's Castle will also be on hand to accept donations both days.

In a new twist this year, MWR will be onsite selling German Gluhwein, eggnog and holiday beer for the adults, as well as pretzels for the whole crowd. There will also be face painting, balloon artists and more to keep the kids occupied.

"All the money raised goes directly back to the Army community," Lanthier said. "So we're really hoping that the turnout is great."

Check out the LCSC Holiday Bazaar Nov. 3 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Nov. 4 from noon to 5 p.m. Admission is $2 for all adults, and children get in for free.

For more information on the LCSC and its events, visit www.jblmlcsc.org.