The highly anticipated New England Craft Fair makes its return this weekend, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in a vibrant world of handmade traditions. As New England’s longest-running craft fair, this annual event continues to be a cornerstone of regional artistry, offering a unique opportunity to connect with skilled artisans and their captivating creations.
Now in its 92nd year, and the 61st to be held at the picturesque Mount Sunapee Resort in Newbury, New Hampshire, the Craftsmen Fair is more than just a marketplace; it is a celebration of diverse artistic expression. Hundreds of juried craftspeople from across the state will showcase an impressive array of handmade wares, encompassing exquisite woodworking, intricate pottery, luxurious textiles, delicate jewelry, and much more.
For Kate Saunders, Executive Director of the League, the fair transcends commercial transactions, serving as a vital component of New Hampshire’s creative ecosystem. She emphasizes that attending the fair and supporting its artisans fosters a sustainable cycle that deeply connects with the region’s rich history and cultural heritage, making a significant impact beyond a single purchase.
Originating from Depression-era roots, the League has blossomed into a thriving network boasting over 700 juried craftspeople. The fair itself has evolved into a comprehensive experience, featuring more than 300 booths, continuous daily Artisan Demonstrations, diverse food vendors, and engaging musical performances, transforming it into a full-fledged cultural festival.
In a charming nod to its long-standing history, each morning commences with the blowing of craftsmen’s horns, a quirky ritual that harks back to simpler times, signaling the official start of the day’s activities. Visitors can further explore the fair’s offerings by visiting the dedicated Art, Craft & Design exhibition, perusing the meticulously curated Shop at the Fair, or finding tranquility in the serene sculpture garden nestled amidst the trees. For an elevated experience, the Mount Sunapee Resort’s chairlift provides daily rides to the summit, offering panoramic views.
Among the featured New Hampshire Artisans is Diane Louise Paul, a juried League member since 1998, returning for her 25th year with a new approach—demonstrating her craft in person. Visitors can observe her process on Thursday, August 7th, as she meticulously crafts items like belts, baskets, sleigh bell straps, and dog collars, all finished with beeswax and stitched using antique tools.
The fair also highlights contemporary talents such as Kristen Dettoni, a fiber artist and textile designer who infuses modern perspectives into traditional techniques, often embedding coded language into her intricate patterns. Jeweler Anne Behrsing, a fair community stalwart for over three decades, showcases her unique “marriage of metals” technique, seamlessly blending aesthetic balance with functional wearability, while cherishing the multi-generational visitors who frequent the event.
Adding to the diverse roster of participants is first-time vendor Shannon Wallis from Vermont, who employs the ancient Ukrainian technique of beeswax and dye to create pysanky—intricately decorated Ukrainian Easter eggs. Her work primarily features traditional folk designs and challenging geometric patterns on chicken eggs, further enriching the fair’s broad spectrum of Handmade Crafts and cultural offerings, making it a must-visit for enthusiasts of unique artistry.
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