The barn at Turtlehead Farm opens its doors once again for Flocking Swans — a winter mercantile experience celebrating artisans of the San Juan Islands. A weekend dedicated to the preservation of the handmade, Flocking Swans is now in its fifth year and has become a cornerstone holiday tradition for islanders and visitors. Over 45 artisans from Orcas, Lopez, Lummi and San Juan lovingly converge for one winter weekend, transforming Turtlehead Farm into a celebration of craft and community. It is held at 114 Sawmill Road, Orcas Island; Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 6 and 7 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Free admission.

Inspired by delight and created by the hands of our region’s finest makers, this year’s market invites guests to explore a thoughtfully curated collection of ceramics, textiles, art, fine jewelry, botanicals, clothing, woodwork, furniture, gifts and more.

Adjacent to the historic barn, a 2,400-square-foot culinary tent debuts. It provides a space where patrons and families can gather and relax within the festive atmosphere of the event — a convivial setting where the islands’ most celebrated chefs and culinary artists come together under one roof. Guests can explore a vibrant mix of seasonal dishes and local flavors: Setsunai Noodles (Lopez Island), Tenth House (San Juan Island), Jima Sushi (San Juan Island) and Cheeseland (Orcas Island), in collaboration with Westside Kitchen (Orcas Island). The comforting winter fare continues with fresh-shucked oysters from Westcott Bay Shellfish Co. (San Juan Island), sweet and savory pastries from SweetCraft Bakeshop, wines by the glass from Girl Meets Dirt, samples from Orcas Island Distillery, warm beverages from Our Place Coffee, and grazing boards from Goat & Co.

Live music resonates within the barn’s wooden halls. From solo saxophonist Keegan Gibson to island favorites Reeb Willms and Caleb Klauder, whose timeless harmonies evoke warmth across the Pacific Northwest. Orcas Island’s Salmonberry School hosts a children’s craft table, inviting young artists to create a handmade piece of the day.

Guests will also enjoy expanded on-site parking this year for easier access. Flocking Swans is more than a market. It is a feast for the senses and a celebration of all things made by hand. For more in, visit www.flockingswans.com or follow @flockingswans.