Grand Bazaar PRESS RELEASE AUG 2026
High-Impact Petaluma Event Expands After Raising $20K+ to Fight Fentanyl Crisis: Grand Bazaar Returns October 2–4

Alarming Sonoma County Opioid Statistics
Sonoma County averages roughly 12 accidental drug overdose deaths per month (about 113 to 121 deaths annually) and 476 emergency department visits for accidental drug overdose, ranking it as the third-highest overdose death rate among San Francisco Bay Area counties. Fentanyl drives the vast majority of these fatalities, accounting for roughly 67% to 90% of opioid-involved or positive drug testing cases. (Source: https://sonomacounty.gov/health-and-human-services/health-services/opioids)

Micah’s Hugs sets World Record and offers same training at the Grand Bazaar.
In Octobe 2025, Micah’s Hugs set a Guinness Book of Records for the largest opioid overdose reversal training, with the support of Analy High School, in Sebastopol, California. Atttendees of the Grand Bazaar can also stop by the Micah’s Hugs booth for 15 minutes and learn everything they need to know to save a life with Narcan, including receiving free Narcan!
Source: https://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/world-records/549928-largest-opioid-overdose-reversal-training

Photos from 2025 Grand Bazaar – FOR PUBLIC RELEASE

Above: Shoppers experience the  Memorial Poster Project of those lost to an overdose as part of the Grand Bazaar..

Above: Micah Sawyer setting up the Memorial Poster Project. These posters featuring angels lost to an overdose were inspired by the loss of his own son, Micah Jr.

Above: Vendors begin the setup of their spaces early in the morning as they anticipate the crowds to come later in the day.

Above: Volunteers are essential to the success of this huge event, and even provide breaks for vendors during the hectic shopping hours.

Above: The Raffle is a vital part of raising funds to support the inspiring work of Micah’s Hugs. Generous vendors donate exciting prizes, giving shoppers a fun way to participate while helping make a meaningful difference in our community.

Above: Connie Weichel, a Sonoma County local, presents Whimsey on Wood and donated one of her creative prints to the Charity Raffle.

Above: Connie Action and wife Susan of Acton Knives are avid supporters of the Grand Bazaar and Micahs’ Hugs.

Above: Volunteers Lindsay Calegari and her mom Karen Wagner, along with coordinator Laurie Banks, tool around to check on free parking shuttle provided by Groome Transportation.

Above: Santa was a welcome guest in 2025 helping set the Holiday spirit. Thanks for volunteer Rob Walker for braving the suit in early season warm weather, and Micah’s Hugs family for posing with the jolly figure. (Sunday Nov 9, 2025)

Above: Event Coordinator Laurie Banks and her granddaughter Bella Banks help Santa (volunteer Rick Nadale) share candy canes with the visitors to the Bazaar. Saturday Oct 8, 2025

Above: Vendors like Pam Juckas help shoppers find unique creative gifts for the holidays like her Wind Spinners up-cycled from aluminum cans and Fairy Houses crafted from natural materials.,

Above: Volunteer Jason Reid, with his bright vest and flag, help ensure safety, directing vehicles and the free parking lot shuttle buses around crowds attending the 2025 Grand Bazaar of Petaluma.