We're deep into craft-fair season again. Here are a some helpful hints as you're making your list and checking it twice:

• Be prepared: Try to get Mom's dress size and Dad's T-shirt size; what about the kids' sizes?

• Some fairs charge admission, but most are free.

• Best time to go: early. You'll have the best choices and the cooler temps.

• Bring bottled water (so you don't have to buy); a durable, oversized bag to haul the goodies; and cash, because not everyone takes credit cards, although checks generally are OK.

• Try not to bring strollers. They might be hard to navigate in a crowd, especially if the fair is outdoors.

•Wear comfy shoes for all that walking and browsing and buying. Go cool and casual; a cap, hat or visor helps, too.

• Take a snack or soda/coffee break while you look over your list. The pause will refresh you for your next fair. And the one after that.

• Buy perishables at the end of your spree; chocolates melt, plants wilt, cookies could crumble.

• Some vendors might be inclined to make a deal - that is, offer a slightly cheaper price if you buy three of the same items or more. Doesn't hurt to ask.

NOTABLE CRAFT FAIRS:

Islandwide Christmas Crafts & Food Expo, 5-10 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Nov. 24, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Nov. 25, Blaisdell Exhibition Hall and Arena. 623-4050.

Holiday craft fair, ceramics, quilts, jewelry, artwork, woodcarvings and more, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Nov. 24-25, Mission Houses Museum. 531-0481, ext. 714.

Pacific Handcrafters Guild's Winter Festival, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Dec. 8-9, Kaka'ako Gateway Park.

Honolulu Gift Fair, boasting more than 200 vendors, 5-9 p.m. Dec. 14, 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Dec. 15, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Dec. 16, Blaisdell Exhibition Hall. www.honolulugiftfair.com.

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Favorite Christmas craft fairs.