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Community Corner

Shear Delight at Island Alpaca

Every week Patch brings you a Great Escape to unplug and recharge. This week, take time out to unwind with some of the Island's softest and more unlikely residents.

Ah, isn't it nice to finally feel some warm sun on your face? Even though the daffodils have been singing "spring!" for the past several weeks, it hasn't felt truly like summer is on the way until now. That's put me in the mood for lighter clothes and springy colors. And guess what? We're not the only ones putting away our winter coats. The fuzzy residents of the Island Alpaca Company in Oak Bluffs are ready to get into their new spring digs as well.

On Saturday, April 23 Island Alpaca will host its 4th annual Shearing Day celebration from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The alpacas are lain down to avoid stress and given a once-a-year, 10-minute haircut. It's just the first stage in the annual fleece-to-fiber transition. 

Festival-goers can view the animals and enter a raffle for a generous gift certificate to the farm store. There, you can buy gorgeous handbags, scarves and other garments. The Island Alpaca Co. also has graciously provided a picnic area and refreshments, as well as chili for sale, so you can enjoy an afternoon of food, drink and festivities with friends and neighbors, whether that's someone you might bump into at Cronig's or one of the Island's many alpacas.

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Admission to the festival is $5. Call 508-693-5554 or visit www.islandalpaca.com for more details, as well as a picture gallery from previous Shearing Day festivals.

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