Craft Shows in Northern Indiana & Illinois
Craft shows across Northern Indiana and Illinois offer a fascinating opportunity to learn about local craftspeople. The area is not only steeped in American history -- Illinois holds President Abraham Lincoln's hometown -- but also boasts the third-largest Amish settlement in North America, according to "Amish America" author Erik Wesner. Such craft fairs often include games, refreshments and sometimes even live entertainment.
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Amish Acres Arts & Crafts Festival
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Running for four days in August, this award-winning festival in Nappanee, Indiana, features over 320 artists and crafters from across the country, according to the show organizers. Visitors also enjoy live entertainment on three stages and a children's entertainment tent -- all of which surround the Amish Acres pond. Show-goers can also try festival foods or a full dinner at the on-site, family-style restaurant.
Marshall County Blueberry Festival
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With an estimated 400 craft vendors offering everything from wire art to woodworking, as well as 100 food booths, this Labor Day event ranks as Indiana's largest four-day festival. Located in Plymouth, the jam-packed craft show includes sports -- with golf, softball, tennis and volleyball tournaments -- as well as live entertainment, a parade, pageant and fireworks display.
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Three Rivers Festival Crafters' Market
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This Fort Wayne, Indiana, festival, which takes place in early July, has a little bit of everything. In addition to the Art in the Park show and crafters market, this event features a live entertainment stage, a midway, children's programming and an aptly named "Junk Food Alley."
Saint Charles Festival of Arts & Crafts
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Floral designs, folk art, glassware, watercolors and calligraphy are among the handcrafted works on display at this two-day event, which takes place in St. Charles, Illinois, in March. According to the show organizers, the event offers over 170 booths, with jewelry, clothing and home decor items.
Dupage County's Spring Fling Arts & Craft Show
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Held over two days in May, this show in Wheaton, Illinois, brings in an estimated 9,000 show-goers every year. In addition to a showcase of talented artisans and craftspeople from the area, the event features live entertainment from local musicians and a kids' zone.
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- Photo Credit Color Bowls image by Maritza Diaz from Fotolia.com
