POAC hosting Art & Crafts Fair

SANDPOINT — People who were children when the Pend Oreille Arts Council's Arts and Crafts Fair first started at City Beach are now bringing their grandchildren to a bigger and better fair now held downtown Sandpoint, fifty-one years later.

And when the Pend Oreille Arts Council says bigger and better, this year's event features over 120 vendors all with handmade, unique wares.

The show opens Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Vendors will set up their tents from Main Street east of Farmin Park to First Avenue and across Second Avenue from Cedar to Church Streets. The Fair continues Sunday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Artists and crafters come from all over the country to participate in this juried show. Whether you’re looking for clever gifts, or trying to find treasures for yourself, this Fair is tailor-made for your discerning style. From metal art to pottery to jewelry to fine art to yard art, this show has something for everyone’s taste and budget. And, speaking of taste, food vendors will be on hand to serve lunch and snacks.

And if shopping isn’t your thing, the Kaniksu Land Trust Folk School will have a booth by the fountain where you can carve your own wooden spoon, weave a broom, make a copper ring, and more. There will also be artists doing henna tattoos, caricature drawings (Saturday only), hair shimmers, and permanent jewelry (bracelets, anklets and necklaces that are welded together on the spot).

“This show grows every year and we’re thrilled that we have lots of returning artists along with several new and extremely original and inventive booths,” POAC President Carol Deaner said. “We’ve been doing this show for a long time, and I think, no I know, this year will exceed everyone’s expectations.”

Deaner said that the number of applications to participate this year was more than expected. “This has given us the opportunity to choose the best of the best artists and crafters. We’re excited to see downtown filled with tents offering incredible and unique items,” she said. “I hope to see all of you there!”

For those who work and play downtown, please note that the streets of the Fair will be closed to vehicle traffic beginning at 5 p.m. today, and continuing until 8 p.m. Sunday. Cars parked in the zone will be subject to being towed. Access to the City Lot will be on Church Street only.

Information: Pend Oreille Arts Council, artinsandpoint.org or 208-263-6139