If you're wondering what to get your mom for her special day this weekend, participants at the Crozet Spring Arts and Crafts Festival offer the option of gifting something made by an artist or a bouquet you made yourself. I'll give it to you.
Whether it's a simple knick-knacks or a piece of art to cherish forever, the 44th spring edition of the twice-yearly juried art show and family-friendly festival, scheduled for Saturday and Sunday at Parc Claudius Crozet , there's “something for everyone.” festival director Ewa Haar told The Daily Progress.
If you'd like to give some DIY fun as a gift, Ivy's Dogwood Tree Florist offers a make-your-own bouquet area. If you'd rather leave your artistry to someone else, more than 125 exhibitors at the rain or shine festival will offer paintings, photography, jewelry, woodwork, fiber art, and other handmade options. Wine tastings will also be held from noon to 2 p.m. each day.
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With a mix of returning and new artists, “It's a new festival every year,” Herr said. “In a juried show, it's important to have as much variety and variety as possible. There are so many eligible entries that it's very tough for the judges. Once again, the competition was fierce.”
Haar said there were a record number of applicants (twice as many as usual) seeking admission to the spring festival. Expect exhibitors to include clay, graphic art, mixed media works, jewelry, painting, fiber art, leather goods, photography, glass, metal, wood, personal care products, culinary specialties and more.
Haar said that for many local families, attending this spring festival has become a Mother's Day weekend tradition, providing local mothers and grandmothers with gifts as well as wine tastings, food and music. He said he was thinking of providing hospitality.
Saturday's music lineup includes harpist Vicki Lee at 10 a.m., storyteller and musician Jim Gagnon at 11:30 a.m., instrumental trio Webley Twizzle Project at 1 p.m., 3 p.m. Includes the semi-eclectic band Wicked Old.
Sunday's entertainment schedule includes Crozet's own Skyline Country Cloggers at 10 a.m., Blackwood Station's folk, rock and psychedelia at 11:30 a.m. and the serene Pinkerton Raid at 3 p.m.
Kim and Jimbo Carey will be back to perform Americana, Southern mountain music, gospel and songs for kids and families in the festival's children's area. Also available will be Bounce Play and Create, Magic Mirror Arts, the Rose Inspiration Station mobile arts and crafts studio, and the University of Virginia Child Development Institute.
Expect avocado dishes from: Creative Catering Company, Shrimp on a Stick, Sabor Latino Restaurant, Popitos Pizza, Twisted Biscuits, Just a Bite Food & Catering Services, Crozet Lions Club, Crozet Creamery, Kona Ice, Blue Ridge Kettle Corn , Posh Fairy Floss, Carpe Donuts, Whistle Stop Grill, and Nolisa's Lemonade, as well as a variety of local Virginia beers, ciders, and wines.
There is parking available at Crozet Park, but if it gets crowded, feel free to park at nearby Western Albemarle High School and take the Crozet Trolley shuttle bus.
“We have had great attendance in the spring and fall, exceeding pre-pandemic levels,” Herr said.
Haar said the answer to the most frequently asked question is “yes.” Tickets are certainly available at the gate. You can bring your dog on a leash. Children 12 and under are admitted free. Parking is free.