Now in its 11th year, Duck The Malls has become an Olympia tradition. From favorites such as custom lamps to unique woodworking, the high-quality craft fair is always a treat to visit. Browse through nearly 60 vendor offerings, including Christmas ornaments to poke, pretty fabrics to rub, delicious things to smell and creative gifts to give.

And while the name is cute, and the vibe is cozy, crafty and Christmas-y, shopping on a local level spreads goodwill much farther than the couch that handmade throw pillow will rest on.

"Buying local could be the best decision U.S. shoppers make this season," notes a recent online article in the Huffington Post. "According to the Andersonville study of retail economics, local business generates 70 percent more local economic activity per square foot than big box retail."

Furthermore, "local, independent makers are much more likely to reuse materials. (Nearly 60) percent said they ‘occasionally or usually' use recycled materials and 7 percent said they ‘always' do."

And at Duck The Malls, that percentage is much higher.

"One of the criteria is that it's local made or handmade - you can't just buy stuff in bulk," said Pat Tassoni, who has been a vendor every year. "Even jewelry is assembled from found pieces."

Tassoni uses industrial and household products in his own handcrafted lamps and art. Most of the items are things he already owns or has found at Goodwill or a garage sale.

"Like a hand blender," he explains. "I will take it apart and use it in an unrecognized form."

Crafting and up-cycling ideas for Duck The Malls keeps growing. Tassoni said a majority of the vendors are new; this is the second year that the balcony will be open, so more artists can be invited. 

"It doesn't seem to be slowing down," he said. "If anything, it's gaining more momentum."

Maybe it's thanks to a spreading notion, from articles in the Huffington Post and President Obama spending time at his local bookstore for Small Business Saturday, or maybe it's just the fact that Duck The Malls has been going strong in a community that cares.

"I think it has better representation, more vendors and more consumers," Tassoni said. "It's just showing the DIY thing is alive and well."

Come see what Duck The Malls has to offer and feel great knowing that you are helping contribute to your community.

DUCK THE MALLS, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14, Capitol Theater, 206 Fifth Ave., Olympia, free admission