Fall Fairs: Guide to Michigan Arts and Crafts
Krystal Clark
| 3 min read
November is a magical month. It’s the pinnacle of fall and beginning of the holiday season. During this time, people are encouraged to embrace the spirit of giving. Yet, in a world of retail giants, it’s hard to find unique items that leave a lasting impression.
If you’re craving originality, a craft show is your golden ticket. It’s where Michigan’s best artisans present exclusive works to local buyers. Throughout the month, venues big and small will be hosting fairs across the state.
Want to get in on the action? Here are 10 craft shows heading your way.
- Freedom Village Annual Holiday Bazaar (Holland, Nov 2-3): Handmade jewelry, quilts, baked goods, and more take center stage at the Freedom Village Holiday Bazaar. Spend the day perusing exotic designs and gifts that cater to all ages.
- International Artisan Market (Grand Rapids, Nov. 3): Every year, artists flock to this one-day event deemed the “craft fair to change the world.” Attendees find local and international supplies, great food, and tons of entertainment.
- CVHS Fall Holiday Craft Show (Clinton Township, Nov. 10): Support the Chippewa Valley High School Band by visiting their 25th Annual Fall Craft Show. Vendors offer select trinkets and treasures you won’t find anywhere else.
- Jax Naz Womens’ Expo and Craft Show (Jackson, Nov. 10): Get a head start on your holiday shopping at the 6th Annual Women’s Expo and Craft Show. Up to 80 vendors will present goods and services targeting the female audience.
- Royal Oak Market: Art Fair Edition (Royal Oak, Nov. 15-16): Sixty-five artists are expected to present their work at this juried fair that includes live music, food, and seasonal drinks.
- Midland Center Holiday Art Fair (Midland, Nov. 17-18): This annual show benefits multiple educational programs for the Alden B. Dow Museum. Over 60 artist booths will feature handcrafted goods from local and visiting talent.
- Holiday Expo & Craft Show (Kalamazoo, Nov. 17-18): This Kalamazoo craft show has an extensive list of over 200 vendors. But the best part is its free admission.
- Annual Potter’s Market (Southfield, Nov. 29-Dec. 2): In 2017, over 8,000 people visited this pottery paradise. It has everything from mugs, tiles, and vases to picture frames, sculptures, and Christmas decorations.
- Winter Wonderland Arts & Craft Show (Westland, Nov. 30-Dec.1): This semi-annual show attracts 100 crafters and over 3,000 attendees. Only handmade items from jury-selected artists will be on display. You won’t find commercial or manufactured products here.
- The Detroit Urban Craft Show (Detroit, Nov. 30-Dec. 2): Now in its 13th year, the Detroit Urban Craft Fair is a notable highlight of the season. Shoppers can meet designers, purchase one-of-a-kind items, and support the small craft community.
Check out more fun fall activities below:
Photo credit: JackF
