Get a jump on holiday shopping with these local craft fairs

With many of them happening from now through December, shopping at local craft fairs and holiday bazaars offer so much more than one-of-a-kind gifts.

Buying locally instead of at large chain stores will offer shoppers both the expected crocheted potholders to the unexpected hand-painted signs that they didn’t know existed. The area shows have something for everyone from homemade candy to personalized water bottles, and more.

“We have a lot of different vendors,” Hartford’s co-host, Lisa Kuehnle said. “We have Christmas decor, baked goods, Amish rugs, woodworking, crafts and some vendor booths.” She continued, “Veterans get a free meal and Santa will be there from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. for pictures. As well as, Ben’s Pretzel Wagon will be set out in front of the middle school at the entrance to the bazaar for those wanting a savory snack.”

Kuehnle also said the bazaar is a fundraiser for student scholarships and teacher grants within the Hartford Public School system.

And for others, it’s about being part of a community. People who attended the Coloma event in the past said that while the fair creates community, small businesses also provide a more personal touch to holiday gift giving.

“It’s more unique, and you don’t really see anyone out there with the same things,” said Dena Brule, an attendee from last year’s Coloma Holiday Bazaar. She continued, “And it’s fun meeting up with friends and family to go shopping. Not to mention you feel like you’re not only helping their business, you’re helping a local family.”

Why shop at these events?

There are many reasons to consider shopping at these types of events. Some of them are: Craft fairs save dying arts by giving leatherworkers, woodworkers, textile weavers, and other artisans a venue to show their wares. Crafts sold at craft fairs are made with love. By purchasing goods at a craft fair, you are supporting people rather than corporations.\

When you purchase from a craft fair, you can know that the product you are buying is unique. Visiting a craft fair is a chance to meet local artists and appreciate their creativity rather than visiting a mall filled with the mass-produced merchandise.

Handcrafted items will usually last longer; in fact, they may become heirlooms. By purchasing crafts at an art fair, you are fostering creativity in your hometown.

Crafts sold at craft fairs celebrate the diversity and culture of the community. Purchasing from craft fairs supports local entrepreneurs and the local economy. By buying at home, you keep that money at home.

Buying goods at local fairs supports local art events and encourages your community to host more events like it in the future.

Where can you shop?

Here are several craft fairs, art markets, and holiday festivals where someone can shop for unique goods while supporting local artists and businesses.

Share this list with friends to encourage others to shop local:

HARTFORD

The 55th Annual Holiday Bazaar claims to be the oldest holiday bazaar in West Michigan. This is the first event to be held in the Tri-City area.

Plan on attending this Saturday, Nov. 11, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Hartford Middle School Gym located at 121 School Street.

COLOMA

The Coloma Athletic Boosters who work to support Coloma’s athletic programs and promote Comet spirit is hosting a Holiday Bazaar on Sunday, Nov. 19.

The event will be held at the Coloma Middle School Gym located at 274 S. West St., Coloma and is scheduled to run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

WATERVLIET

Welcome to Whoville, is this year’s theme for the Watervliet’s Hometown Christmas Celebration and Holiday Bazaar event held on Saturday, Dec. 2, 2023. The time is from 1-5 p.m. and will be housed indoors in the vacant building between the Local 3 Grill & Tap and La Chula Mexican Market and restaurant.

The organizers are still looking for crafters and vendors. The booths are $25. For more information on signing up contact Amy Loshbough, the event chairperson, at 269-876-1326.

LAWRENCE

Shop local for all your Christmas gifts as part of the day long Lawrence Hometown Christmas Saturday, Dec. 9, as they will be hosting the 2nd Annual Christmas Craft Show from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

They have over 25 talented vendors with wonderful gift options in store for shoppers. Handcrafted items include, but not limited to, crocheted items, tumblers, quilting, dehydrated candies, ornaments, wreaths, wooden signs, jewelry, Sweet Street Nails, vintage Christmas linens & collectibles, items from Pink Zebra, and much more!

The event will be located at the Lawrence Township Hall, 411 N. Paw Paw Street, where all proceeds will go towards the Ox Roast/Homecoming Tradition in September.

Please shop local!

And, in the end, attendees of all these events are able to walk away with unique pieces and a little more Christmas spirit, with some even grabbing a tasty snack while out shopping with friends and family.