Craft shows and festivals are abundant in Ohio, with many happening during the fall months and holiday season. From juried shows with top-quality crafts to primitive festivals that focus on the state’s heritage, the talent displayed by Ohio artisans appeals to any craft enthusiast's taste.
The Christmas in Ohio Craft Show is held the first weekend of October at the Hancock County Fairgrounds in Findlay and boasts more than 300 artisans in 11 buildings. Plan to spend the day shopping for holiday decorations and gifts, wood crafts, jewelry and candles. Live entertainment and concessions are also available. As of 2010, show hours are Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is $5. Free admission for children 12 and younger.
Hancock County Fairgrounds
1017 E. Sandusky Street
Findlay, OH 45840
419-436-1457
cloudshows.biz
The Ohio Sauerkraut Festival, held the second weekend in October in Waynesville, has been bringing craft enthusiasts to Ohio for more than 40 years. A juried show, the Sauerkraut Festival is host to more than 450 artisans from 28 states. A jury committee evaluates each vendor to insure only handmade, high-quality crafts are exhibited. Visitors can expect to find country crafts, hand-woven baskets, holiday decor and metal crafts. Festival goers can also enjoy a plethora of sauerkraut food offerings including pizza, fudge and baked goods. A cookbook featuring the kraut recipes is also offered for sale. Non-kraut food is also available. As of 2010, hours are Saturday 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Free admission.
Waynesville Area Chamber of Commerce
10 N. Main Street
Waynesville, OH 45068-9102
513-897-8855
sauerkrautfestival.com
Also in Waynesville, the Ohio Renaissance Festival features artisans that focus on crafts and goods reflecting 16th-century England. All items are handmade and include blown glass, candles, leather crafts, pottery and Renaissance clothing. Costumed actors and musicians perform more than 100 shows daily, and there are games and activities for children. Concessions include giant turkey legs and steak on a stick. As of 2010, the festival is open from the first weekend in September through the second weekend in October on Saturdays and Sundays 10:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Admission is $13.99 for adults, $8.99 for children ages 5 to 12. Admission is free for children younger than 5.
Ohio Renaissance Festival
10542 State Route 73
Waynesville, OH 45068
513-897-7000
renfestival.com
The Appalachian Mountain Artisans Fest is held the second weekend in October in Winchester. A primitive show, the Appalachian Mountain Artisans Fest focuses on southern Ohio’s history. Crafts for sale include handmade soaps, quilts, furniture and jewelry. There is also an antique tractor show, live entertainment and hands-on demonstrations. Concessions include turkey legs, barbecue pork and homemade fudge. Admission is free, but donations to the Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s Associations are requested. As of 2010, festival hours are Friday, Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Hilltop Designs
9764 Tri-County Road
Winchester, OH 45697
937-695-5545
hilltopdesigns.org
