Arts & Entertainment
There's Still Time to Get Crafty
The GFWC Lutz- Land O' Lakes Woman's Club invites artists to participate in its upcoming 32nd annual Arts and Crafts Festival.
Calling all artists and crafters: The GFWC Lutz- Land O' Lakes Woman's Club Arts and Crafts Festival returns to Lake Park on Dec. 3 and 4, and there is still time to reserve a spot.
The event, in its 32nd year, will feature about 300 artisan vendors, with wares ranging from original paintings to woodworking, jewelry and ceramics.
Vendors come from all over the country, and many return year after year, event co-chairperson Shirley Simmons said.
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"But we also have a lot of first-time vendors this year," because people are using their creative talents to supplement their incomes during this rough economy, she said.
Though food and jewelry vendor spots have been filled, there are still about 40 openings for others who would like to participate in this year's festival.
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Organizers limit the number of resale product vendors, and coordinate the event to maximize the variety of original work available for sale, Simmons said.
A space can be reserved for $150, and vendors keeps all sale proceeds, Simmons said. Vendors must bring their own tables and tents.
Last year's festival drew about 30,000 visitors, she said.
The arts and craft festival has served as the club's major annual fundraiser since 1979. The proceeds allow the club to fund several scholarships to Lutz and Land O' Lakes high school seniors, as well as support a large number of charitable causes, Simmons said.
Some recent recipients of club support include Christian Social Services in Land O' Lakes, the Lutz Patriots and Habitat for Humanity, Simmons said. Proceeds from the festival also are used to purchase holiday gifts for local needy children.
Without the large turnout from vendors and patrons, a lot of these service projects would not get done, Simmons said.
Overnight parking is available through Hillsborough County Parks and Recreation for those who wish to camp for the weekend.
The festival runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Dec. 3, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 4.
Admission to the event is free, however Hillsborough County Parks and Recreation charges $2 per car to enter Lake Park.
To reserve a vendor space, call Shirley Simmons at 813-949-7060 or Phyllis Hoedt at 813-949-1937.
