A historic area in the Capital District is offering an opportunity to explore the booths of over 70 vendors, listen to music and watch numerous demonstrations that whole family can enjoy.
During the weekend of Sept. 6 and 7, the Shaker Heritage Society of Albany will be holding a craft fair that will offer the whole family a chance to get outside for the day and enjoy some shopping and history.
Having gone on for more than a quarter of a century, this craft fair usually draws more than 2,000 people for the weekend and offers the finest crafts and artisan goods. A jury makes sure that all the products and vendors are a cut above the rest.
“They have to meet our criteria. We’re looking for crafts that represent the Shaker standard of quality, and they have to be hand made,” said Starlyn D’Angelo, executive director of the Shaker Heritage Society.
The time it takes for a vendor to be approved depends on a several things. A vendor has to mail in an application with a short biography, images of their booth setup and a copy of their New York State Tax Certificate of Authority.
“They have to be recognized by the state. We also look at the quality of booth set up. We’re looking for people that are going to have attractive set ups,” said Williams.
There are more than 100 vendors on the list, and people call all year to inquire about how they can get a booth. After the items are looked over by the jury, a decision is made.
“The approval process depends on the items and if there are questions from the jury. We have to make sure there are enough jurors present to judge the items. We don’t charge to judge the items,” said Pat Williams, the gift shop manager.
Once a vendor is in, they are included in a mailing list for the July craft fair and the Christmas craft fair. Many of the vendors return year after year.
“The people that participate are like a family and take care of each other. Some have participated since the first show,” said Williams.
Another thing the Shaker Heritage Society aims for is diversity in the type of items being sold. D’Angelo said there has been everything from hand-blown glass to handcrafted canoes. This year, there will be a new face painter, hands-on activities for families and demonstrations ranging from basket weaving to cooking.
The items are all locally grown, made or crafted, and D’Angelo said if you don’t need anything, you could get started on holiday shopping.
“This is a really great way to go into the fair and do some holiday shopping and a way to support local business. All of our businesses are small family business, so you’re supporting your neighbors,” said D’Angelo.
The event runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Sep. 6, and Sunday, Sept. 7, at the Shaker site off Heritage Lane, near the Albany Airport. Admission for adults is $4. Veterans, active-duty military and children under 18 get in free. More information can be found at Shakerheritage.org.