A festive holiday event flyer decorated with Christmas graphics including a tree, bow, present, and wreath. The flyer advertises a “Joyful Christmas Crafts Market” scheduled for December 20–21, 2025, at the West Plaza parking lot in Healdsburg, California, with hours from 8:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. It lists vendor setup times, handmade-item requirements, and an email contact. The word “SCAM” is stamped diagonally across the flyer in large red letters.
A promotional flier for a fictitious holiday fair claiming to be held in Healdsburg, Calif. on Dec. 20-21, 2025. Healdsburg Police are warning the public to verify the legitimacy of craft fair promotions after community members reported scammers trying to collect vendor fees for this fictitious event. (Healdsburg Police Department via Bay City News)

MENDOCINO CO., 11/28/25 – The Healdsburg Police Department issued a warning Monday about scams targeting craft fair vendors.

Police said scammers are promoting fictitious craft fairs in social media groups and asking interested vendors to contact them for details. The scammers then request vendor fees for an event that does not exist.

The department said the scam is occurring nationwide, including in Mendocino County.

“Please be aware of any scams that may be targeting residents during the holiday season,” police said in a social media post. “We have some great community events year-round put on by local groups, and it is unfortunate that scammers would try to take advantage of the community.”

Police urged vendors to verify the legitimacy of any craft fair by contacting the venue or city directly.


Sarah Stierch covers breaking news and more for The Mendocino Voice. Reach her at sarah@mendovoice.com.

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