The 92nd Annual Craftsmen’s Fair Celebrates Creativity And Community In New Hampshire

CONCORD, NH — Step into a vibrant world where fine craft and art come alive.

Meet nearly 300 master craftsmen and guest artists from across the region, all juried by the League of NH Craftsmen, as they showcase their latest works. This year, the League is proud to welcome 11 new booth holders and eight new guest artists, offering fresh voices and handmade treasures you won’t find anywhere else. The nine-day event will showcase some of the very best examples of the pride of New Hampshire’s art world, handmade by local residents who have honed their skills over years of hard work.

“At a time when publicly funded support for the arts in New Hampshire is changing, this Fair stands as an annual celebration of the people who drive the creative economy; artists who contribute in a way that make our state special,” Kate Saunders, the executive director of the League of New Hampshire Craftsmen said. “The Fair is a vibrant and thriving arts event which will include our members, the NH Art Association and the NH Woodworkers Guild. Together, we represent more than 2,000 hard-working makers. We appreciate the support we have enjoyed for many years from people who come to us from all over New England. This year’s event is a celebration of our culture and of the value of the artists and their work.”

Visitors are invited to take in the Art, Craft & Design Exhibition, and the serene Sculpture Garden, where every piece tells a story. Attendees will discover how to incorporate one-of-a-kind fine craft into their wardrobe, home, and landscape. And The Shop at the Fair is a thoughtfully curated cooperative sales space perfect for unique gift-giving. For those seeking scenic vistas during their visit, the Sunapee Mountain Ski Lift will be open for trips to the summit for spectacular views of the region.

This event is a celebration of craftsmanship for all generations. Watch live, interactive demonstrations by League artists and regional guilds who reveal the techniques behind their time-honored trades. Families will love the Kids Create tent, the hands-on Pottery Tent, and a Scavenger Hunt that turns the entire fairground into an adventure. Support the future of fine craft at the Next Generation Tent, where young artisans — mentored by League members — debut their handmade work.

Stay for the day and enjoy live music from two different performers each day, and indulge in delicious fare from nine specialty food vendors and the Mount Sunapee Resort lodges.

“Join us at the Annual Craftsmen’s Fair and be inspired by the passion, skill, and creativity that make this event a New Hampshire summer tradition,” Saunders said. “We have an amazing line-up of artists sharing their craft. We are thrilled to showcase their work for all to see.”

This New Hampshire arts tradition is the largest fundraiser for the non-profit League of NH Craftsmen. Revenues allow us to sustain our mission to advance, cultivate and champion excellence in fine craft throughout the year.

The Fair is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., rain or shine. Buy tickets online to save money and move quickly through our gates. Gate admission rates will be higher than online ticket purchases. Ages 16 and younger may attend for free.

Find more details and ticket information at nhcrafts.org

The mission of the League of NH Craftsmen is to advance, cultivate and champion excellence in fine craft. The League pursues that mission through educational programming, leadership initiatives, marketplace strategies and support services. Through the League’s jury process, artists must demonstrate not only technical expertise, but also the “spirit of the maker” – that personal aspect of their work that shows everyone that a piece is theirs alone – that comes from years of experience as well as true artistic passion. For over 90 years, the nonprofit League has promoted fine craft, supported craftspeople, and educated and enriched New Hampshire’s communities. Visitors shop in our Fine Craft Galleries located across the state that feature outstanding hand-made craft and wide-ranging educational programs such as classes, demonstrations and workshops that are open to people of all ages and skill levels.

Submitted by the League of NH Craftsmen