Annual Arts & Crafts Fair set to return this weekend

SANDPOINT — Collect works from local artists?

Or maybe you need a new set of plates or dishware but you want something unique? Maybe there is a photograph of a local spot you want to hang on you wall that captures memories of a special day?

All these and more are among the items that can be found at the Pend Oreille Arts Council's annual Sandpoint Arts & Crafts Fair taking place this weekend.

The community is invited to celebrate one of North Idaho's favorite summer traditions, set for Saturday and Sunday in downtown Sandpoint. The fair will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 8, and from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 9, 

Now in its 54th year, the Sandpoint Arts & Crafts Fair continues to showcase the creativity and craftsmanship of artists and makers. Approximately 120 juried vendors will line the streets of downtown, offering an impressive selection of original artwork and handcrafted goods. Visitors can browse paintings, jewelry, metalwork, home goods, glass art, ceramics, artisan foods, fiber arts, photography, woodworking and much more, with many new vendors joining the fair this year, POAC officials said. 

Families will also find plenty to enjoy beyond the vendor booths. Kids can explore hands-on art activities hosted by Kaniksu Folk School, Sandpoint Ceramics and Sandpoint Waldorf School, while fairgoers can enjoy delicious local favorites from Jupiter Jane and Azar's Greek Food throughout the weekend. 

"We're excited to welcome the community back for another Arts & Crafts Fair," said Claire Lutz, POAC arts coordinator. "There's something special about seeing downtown filled with artists, makers and neighbors enjoying the weekend together. Whether you're searching for a one-of-a-kind gift, adding something unique to your own home, or simply spending the day exploring, the fair is a wonderful opportunity to support artists and experience the creativity that makes our community so vibrant." 

For more than five decades, the Sandpoint Arts & Crafts Fair has become a hallmark of summer in North Idaho, drawing thousands of visitors each year while supporting independent artists and the Pend Oreille Arts Council's mission to enrich the community through arts education, exhibitions, and cultural programming. 

Admission is free, and everyone is welcome. 

For more information, visit artinsandpoint.org or follow the Pend Oreille Arts Council on Facebook for event updates. 

    Local youth make their own artistic creations at the Pend Oreille Arts Council's youth activity station at the 2024 POAC Arts & Crafts Fair.