Christmas came early for Swampscott residents who visited the First Congregational Church’s annual Let It Snow Fair on Saturday, November 22.

Guests shopped for a plethora of holiday-themed decorations, food and gifts as Christmas carols rang through the church one after another. The church’s long-running tradition continued Saturday, with the fair reaching its 177th edition this year.

“It’s just wonderful to see people coming back year after year after year,” said Sharon Thomas, co-chair of the event. “People really look forward to it.”

Members of the church sold items of their choosing with all proceeds from sales going to the congregation. Thomas said new vendors and offerings are added each year.

“We make space for anyone,” Thomas said. “We love new ideas.”

Member Betsy Mariere’s new table, Taste of Thanksgiving, featured meal kits, while she gave pie-making demonstrations throughout the event.

Thomas said jewelry and books are typically a huge draw, but people often come for one thing and find themselves buying all sorts of holiday necessities.

“We wanted to make it joyful,” said Thomas. “Everybody has a smile. Nobody is grumpy. It’s a nice way to get people in that holiday mood.”

Dozens of local businesses and restaurants donated items, gift cards and experiences for the fair’s silent auction. Auction items included a telescope, boots and a sailing outing. Thomas said the fair wouldn’t be possible without the donations from local businesses.

“Everybody says ‘yes’ and nobody says ‘no.’ It’s wonderful,” she said.

The church’s cafe, Le Bistro, served up hot soup as guests came inside from the cold and wet, not-so-joyful weather outside.

Volunteers from Swampscott’s Seaside Youth Club helped out with tasks around the church grounds to make the fair happen.

“I love that the little ones are involved,” said Thomas. “Some are doing the ornament-making table. It’s really nice to see all ages here. The really neat thing is it’s not just the church community. It’s the entire Swampscott community.”