Popular free annual Fall River Christmas Arts and Crafts Fair to showcase 200 crafters

The 48th Annual Christmas Arts and Crafts Fair will be held at Durfee High School on December 7 and 8. The two-day event, sponsored by the Fall River Scholarship Foundation, will be open from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. There is no admission charge and plenty of free parking.

“We have 200 of the finest crafters from throughout New England at our fair,” James Rogers, founder and director of the Fair, announced today.” The purpose of the Fair is to give area craftsmen a showcase setting where they can display and sell their handmade work to the thousands of area residents who look forward to this annual Christmas-time event. “

 Categories include ceramics and pottery, candle and soap making, clothing, flowers, and photography. While the predominant mediums are wood, fabric, and pottery, many crafters create their artistic pieces using seashells, dough, and soap. All of these handmade items are on sale during the weekend event.

Steven Manchester, a local author, will participate, along with authors Willie Pleasants of Dorchester, Filomena Tripp of New Bedford, and Emerly Varosky of Attleboro.

The Durfee Performing Arts Association will provide a food court for the fair. Under the direction of their president, Dana Giglio, the school group will serve donuts and sandwiches throughout the two days. A shuttle bus will also be available to bring visitors back and forth to the large rear parking lots.

35 crafters from Fall River will exhibit their hand-crafted work at the fair, along with two crafters from New York State and one from Florida.

The Christmas Crafts Fair has grown into the largest event of its kind in southern New England. While over 8,000 people attended last year, this year’s turnout is expected to increase.

Over fifty volunteers, including members of the Durfee Orchestra, have agreed to assist during the two-day event. Volunteers are welcome to join in this holiday tradition by calling Rogers at 508 673-1118 or emailing jimanddee@comcast.net.

Proceeds from the Fair will be awarded in the form of scholarships to Fall River students next June.