Is it just me, or does time seem to move faster around the holidays? One moment we’re welcoming the first crisp mornings of fall, and the next, we’re counting down the final shopping days before The Windmill Farm & Craft Market closes for the season.
Only four more days remain to soak up the sights, sounds, and spirit of The Windmill before it settles into its winter rest.
🗓️ Shop the final four Saturdays of the season:
November 15, November 22, November 28 (Black Friday), and November 29 (Small Business Saturday).
It’s hard to believe how quickly the year has passed — another summer and autumn full of laughter, local flavors, handmade treasures, and friendly conversations drifting down the aisles. Though many of the outside shops have already wrapped up for the year, the long, familiar buildings still hum with that comforting rhythm of community — the chatter of merchants, the smiles of guests, and the unmistakable spirit of the season.
There’s something about The Windmill in November that feels especially cozy. The air carries the faint scent of cinnamon and pine. The merchants, bundled in sweaters and scarves, offer cheerful hellos as you browse for last-minute gifts or that one special thing you didn’t know you needed until you saw it. And tucked between the booths, you can feel it — Christmas is in the air.
✨ Spotlights: A Few of Our Favorite Stops
Cindy’s Gift Solutions — Building 4
This unique shop includes a beautiful selection of clothing, home décor, and jewelry care products — with something special for everyone. Cindy’s carries distinctive clothing for all sizes, and their Queen section has a lovely variety of dresses and tops designed for comfort and style. Whether you’re shopping for yourself or looking for that perfect gift, it’s a stop that always delights.
Purple Martin Boutique — Building 3
Step into Purple Martin Boutique for kimonos, novelty socks, fun graphic tees, and books! You’ll also find a charming selection of carefully curated “Gently Loved” clothing and accessories — proof that sustainable fashion can be both stylish and soulful. As they love to say, “There are already enough awesome clothes on the planet — let’s wear them!”
Judd’s Sudds — Building 3
Judd’s Sudds is a delightful, colorful shop filled with wonderful scents and an array of handmade personal care products. From body soaps and butters to sugar scrubs, solid shampoo bars, beard oils, and lotion bars — every item is crafted from organic, natural ingredients that are paraben, silicone, and preservative-free.
Behind the shop is the heart and hands of Kelly Judd — a dedicated stay-at-home mom of four, homeschooling her children while running a small homestead and small business. Her care and creativity shine through in every product she makes — a perfect reflection of The Windmill’s handmade spirit.
The Quilt Room — Building 1
It all began as a hobby. In 1981, Susie Stoltzfus, having recently moved from Lancaster, Pennsylvania to New York, began making quilts and showing them at local fairs. What started as a creative pastime soon blossomed into a beloved local business. Today, The Quilt Room is owned and operated by Susie’s daughter and son-in-law, Naomi and Glenn Lapp. Their specialty lies in custom work and quilt repairs, and over the years they’ve expanded their offerings to include handmade crafts and candles. You can visit The Quilt Room right at 1970 Hoyt Road, Penn Yan — just half a mile from The Windmill.
Grapes Alive – It’s PAWSable — Building 1
And if you’re a pet lover, Grapes Alive – It’s PAWSable is sure to steal your heart. You won’t believe your eyes when you see their large variety of hand-painted glassware — some featuring graceful grape vines or flowers, others showcasing all your favorite animals. Choose from wine glasses, cookie jars, candles, and more.
A tall glass mug with a painting of a laughing horse? The perfect gift for that friend who already has everything! And for something truly personal, bring in a picture of your favorite pet and have a custom piece made — perhaps a biscuit jar with your furry friend’s face smiling back at you.
🎁 Coming Up: Customer Appreciation Days & Holiday Weekend Festivities
The season may be winding down, but The Windmill is ending the year on a high note! Mark your calendars for Black Friday (Nov. 28) and Small Business Saturday (Nov. 29) — two days filled with festive cheer, savings, and community fun.
Join us for our Customer Appreciation Days, where vendors will be offering end-of-season sales, and The Windmill will host hourly prize drawings plus a grand prize each day to thank loyal shoppers for another wonderful year.
🎅 Santa and Mrs. Claus will be visiting from 10:00 AM to 12:30 PM, ready to meet families and pose for pictures — and rumor has it, a few of Santa’s reindeer may make an appearance too!
So come out, “shop small,” and support over 100 local small businesses while soaking up the spirit of the holidays. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the close of another wonderful Windmill season.
🕗 Event Hours: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
📍 Location: The Windmill Farm & Craft Market, Penn Yan, New York
🌐 Website: www.thewindmill.com
So if you’ve been meaning to make one last visit, now’s the time. Wander through the familiar halls, pick up a jar of jam, a handmade ornament, or maybe a cup of steaming cider. Take in the glow of lights, the laughter, and the feeling that only a place like The Windmill can bring.
Because while the doors will soon close for winter’s rest, the memories made here — and the friendships formed between aisles — carry on long after the season ends.
🌿 A Note from Keuka Roots
Each visit to The Windmill is more than a shopping trip — it’s a walk through stories, traditions, and the heart of our community. As another season draws to a close, we celebrate the makers, dreamers, and doers who fill these buildings with creativity and care. Thank you for keeping it local, for supporting small businesses, and for sharing the simple joy of life between the lakes.
Until next spring — stay cozy, stay kind, and as always, stay Rooted.
