Craft Shows in SE Iowa
Whether you're a hobbyist interested in ideas for creating crafts of your own, or simply a collector of crafts, the southeast region of Iowa is home to several different semi-annual craft shows. From Marion to Mount Pleasant, collectors and artsy folks alike will find a haven in this corner of the state.
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Marion Arts Festival
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Located in the eastern portion of Iowa near Cedar Rapids, the city of Marion is home to an annual arts festival, typically held in May. The 2011 ArtFair SourceBook ranks the Marion Arts Festival No. 2 in the nation for the best return on exhibitors' investments, boasting $9 return for every $1 spent. Events in the festival include a community art project that is later installed in a public location in the city; the "Empty Bowls Project," in which local students create more than 1,000 ceramic bowls for sale at the festival to benefit the local food bank; and live music and food vendors.
Bentonsport Spring Festival
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Along the Des Moines River, in the southeastern corner of the state, the city of Bentonsport hosts an annual spring festival, in which the parks and historic district serve as the setting for a craft show. Typically held in late spring, the festival includes a flea market, craft vendors, antiques, and art demonstrations.
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Midwest Old Threshers Reunion
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Due south of Iowa City, the historic town of Mount Pleasant hosts an annual Old Threshers Reunion, in which members of a nonprofit network of farmers and historians get together for a farm show to exhibit antique and new farming equipment. The event is usually held in September in the historic school buildings and churches owned by the organization. The reunion boasts an annual roster of country music artists, amusement park rides, an elaborate antique doll exhibit, and for-sale crafts and demonstrations.
Riverssance Festival of Fine Art
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On the eastern border of Iowa, in the city of Davenport, an annual art festival known as Riverssance takes place in a park overlooking the Mississippi River. The event boasts 100s of local and area artists exhibiting and selling their work. In addition, children's areas and food vendors are on hand. Art media include paintings, prints, ceramics, glasswork, leather, wood pieces and many others.
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References
- Photo Credit kids paint craft image by Christopher Hill from Fotolia.com
