’Tis the season for holiday craft fairs
Jill McKissick of Wilmington shows off a bookmark charm she was selling at the Sparkle Village Craft Show and Sale in Saranac Lake in December 2023. (Enterprise photo — Aaron Marbone)
LAKE PLACID — Communities throughout the Adirondacks are planning to welcome residents and visitors to their local holiday craft fairs and celebrations.
Many towns and villages have scheduled local craft fairs to align with community celebrations taking place on weekends throughout November and December. These seasonal events offer residents and visitors another opportunity to shop and celebrate in local Adirondack style.
The various community celebrations often include live music, silent auctions, artisan and vendor displays, raffles, tree lightings, various activities for kids, wreath making exhibitions, parades, fireworks and, of course, appearances by Santa and Mrs. Claus.
“The holiday season is an excellent time to explore our Adirondack communities,” Regional Office of Sustainable Tourism COO Mary Jane Lawrence said. “Our local artisans and event organizers go above and beyond to create memorable experiences, from festive shopping events to one-of-a-kind gift ideas and community celebrations. Supporting our local businesses and craftspeople fosters vibrant communities and allows visitors the opportunity to experience these fun, family events.”
ROOST is the destination marketing and management organization for Hamilton and Essex counties, along with the communities of Lake Placid, Tupper Lake, and Saranac Lake, all located within the Adirondacks.
–
Holiday craft fairs in Franklin and Essex counties
–
NCCC Annual Holiday Craft Fair
–
Dates: Nov. 23
Town/location: Saranac Lake
Description: Homemade crafts, holiday gifts, home decor and food.
–
Sparkle Village
–
Dates: Dec. 5-6
Town/location: Harrietstown Town Hall, Saranac Lake
Description: Local makers and vendors. Admission is $3 for adults and free for children under the age of 12.
Website: slareachamber.org/sparklevillage
–
Annual Kids Holiday Craft Fair
–
Date: Dec. 6
Town/location: Saranac Lake Free Library, Saranac Lake
Description: Free admission to browse handmade creations from local young crafters.
–
Tupper Lake Craft Fair & Vendor Fest
–
Dates: Dec. 6
Town/location: Tupper Lake
Description: Local artisans, raffle, small gift auction, snacks and an appearance by Santa.
Website: tupperlake.com/events/holiday-craft-and-vendor-fest0
–
Christmas in the Forks
–
Date: Dec. 6
Town/Location: AuSable Forks
Description: Craft fair, wreath-making, pictures with Santa, bake sale, parade, tree lighting and fireworks.
–
Westport WinterFest
–
Date: Dec. 6
Town/location: Westport
Description: Craft sale, shopping opportunities, free warm drinks, cookie and ornament decorating, letters to Santa, tree lighting and caroling in the evening, and much more.
Website: gowestportny.com/calendar
–
Craft Fair at Adirondack Community Church
–
Date: Dec. 13, during Holiday Village Stroll weekend
Town/location: Lake Placid
Description: Local craft fair, bake sale.


