Craft fairs, go wild this last weekend before Lent. Whether it's the WinklePicker Festival (New England's Mardi Gras), the lusty Olustee Arts and Crafts Festival — smack-dab next to an active Civil War battle, or even the emerging trend of man-centric craft classes via the Atlanta Institute of Stitches and Crafts, this weekend offers craft fairs and events certain to shake up your crafting routine.
The East
WinklePicker Festival Feb 17-19, (Fri) 2-8:30, (Sat) 10-9:30, (Sun) 9:30-5
While we're not sure what a winkle is, or even quite why someone wants to pick it, this irreverent New England craft fair offers its own take on the pre-Lenten party, Mardi Gras be darned! Look out for creole cooking demonstrations, a (very) serious costume gallery and even a music camp for kids.
Various locations in Ashfield, Massachusetts (413) 628-4003, info@WinklePickerFest.com, WinklePicker Festival
The South
Wild Women Wearable Art Show Feb 17-19, (Fri) 1-7, (Sat) 10-3, (Sun) 11-4
While those in New England go crazy, women in the south will celebrate their wild ways with a funky traveling art show, featuring clothing, jewelry and other unique accessories.
(Fri & Sat) Marriott Courtyard, 100 South 2nd Street, Louisville, Kentucky, (Sun) Hampton Inn,105 South Meridian Street, 617-786-8259, Twisted Sisters
Atlanta Institute of Stitches and Crafts Feb 18, Class hours vary
This hip craft school offers many DIY courses, including a just-for-men class. Taught by resident ManCrafter Thomas Lodato, this class teaches men the vital Life Skills of mending and hemming (and hawing).
Olustee Arts and Crafts Festival and Reenactment Feb 18-19
Almost all craft fairs offer some entertainment — music, demos and so on. But this Floridian marketplace goes above and beyond with a Civil War battle, complete with costumes, guns and our vote for the most elaborate craft fair yet.
Along Marion Street, Lake City, Florida, 386-755-1097, nicelynan@gmail.com, Olustee Festival
Ozello Chili Cook-Off and Craft Show Feb 18, 9-4
Speaking of unique craft fair entertainment, chili combines with handmade creations for a shop-while-you-pop event sure to bring a smile (or grimace) to any face.
Ozello Civic Association, 14095 West Ozello Trail, Crystal River, Florida, 352-634-0563, jrbeller@iwol.net, Ozello Civic Association
The Midwest
Ritz Crafters Urban Craft Market Feb 18, 10-4
Debuting this weekend, the Wisconsin craft marketplace features trendy jewelry, gourmet treats and an opportunity to support your local crafter.
High Noon Saloon, 701 E Washington Avenue, Madison, Wisconson, ritzcrafters@gmail.com, Ritz Crafters
The West
Eugene Maker Space Feb 18, 11-5
Another grand opening, this man-centered public workroom in southern Oregon dwells upon the tech-and-tool side of crafting. Providing the tools, materials and community, this self-titled "hackerspace" will offer demos, kit building stations and more to celebrate their exciting debut.
Eugene Maker Space, 687 McKinley Street, Suite 2, Eugene, Oregon, board@eugenemakerspace.com, Eugene Marker Space
Greater Seattle Postcard & Collectible Paper Show Feb 18-19, (Sat) 10-6, (Sun) 10-4
While we question hosting a paper craft fair in drizzly Seattle, we love that this marketplace offers a niche space for a craft that often gets overlooked at general craft fairs. Shoppers can expect vintage photographs, stereoviews and lots of other antique memorabilia.
Kent Commons, 525 4th Avenue North, Kent, Washington, 626-665-9435, Postcard Shows
Image credits (from top): Eugene Maker Space, WinklePicker Festival, Linda Hobdy, Atlanta Institute of Stitches and Crafts, Olustee Festival, Ozello Civic Association, etsy.com/shop/Biggie, Eugene Maker Space and NW Postcard Shows
