Not to us! The energy around Bayfield today is so exciting! We are anxiously awaiting Santa’s arrival on the Ferry Boat. Yes, Santa arrive via water in these parts. The site of all of these children waving to Santa as the boat arrives in Bayfield is wonderful! Of course, with the snow today it might be a bit more dramatic (especially for Santa & Mrs. Claus) as they ride through those northeastern waves. This is just one of the events that happens in Bayfield that makes living in a small community like this so wonderful!

Once the children have all told Santa their holiday wishes and consumed their cookies and hot chocolate, many of us will simply head home to curl up on the sofa, snuggle up under a blanket and read a good book. Not us though, we’re going to head to our neighbor community, Washburn, for the arts & crafts boutiques. The maybe after that we’ll enjoy the local production of “A Christmas Carol” at Stagenorth. There is always something to do around here!

We really do encourage all of our friends, guests and family to visit us during these quieter months. There is plenty to do, and at this time of year you experience a completely different beauty. Of course, you see the beauty of the lake, the snow, the woods and more, but you also see the beauty of our community and how much we all appreciate each other.

While we tend to talk a lot about the more active recreational activities we offer our visitors, the retail options are simply wonderful. Apostle Island Booksellers is a great example of the unique character of Bayfield businesses. The beautifully renovated building honors the history while still providing a comfortable, welcoming space. Pay attention to the beautiful mural in the children’s section, painted by “Painter Bob” – yes, another example of Bayfield flavor. And be sure to check out the great “book” in the upper corner of the back of the main space.

The book selection is broad and interesting – great reads with much of what we’d all expect (broad non-fiction and gripping fiction) along with more that speaks to the culture, history and character of the Chequamegon Bay and Apostle Islands area.

The thing about Bayfield is that it attracts really interesting people. And those people are opening businesses such as Apostle Island Booksellers that reflect and share those interests & values. So, enjoy the books, the coffee (Big Water), the chocolate (Sweet Sailing), the pottery (Eckels & Stone’s Throw), the jewelry (Watermusic & Donalee Designs)….oh, the list does go on…

These are the people and their products that add such richness to the Bayfield experience.