Are you a lover of unique craft creations? If so, you won’t want to miss the Rittenhouse Fine Craft Fair! This highly anticipated event showcases an incredible array of exquisite crafts, created by talented artisans from all around the country. From stunning jewelry and intricate ceramic pieces to mesmerizing textiles and awe-inspiring sculptures, the Rittenhouse Fine Craft Fair is a treasure trove for anyone seeking one-of-a-kind, handcrafted masterpieces. Immerse yourself in the intricate beauty of these fine crafts and be prepared to be amazed by the skill and creativity on display. Mark your calendars, gather your friends, and get ready to embrace this captivating celebration of craftsmanship!
Event Overview
Dates and Location
The Rittenhouse Fine Craft Fair is an annual event that showcases the work of talented craftspeople from around the country. This year, the fair will be held on October 16th and 17th in the beautiful Rittenhouse Square Park in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. With its central location and scenic surroundings, Rittenhouse Square Park provides the perfect backdrop for this highly anticipated craft fair.
Description
The Rittenhouse Fine Craft Fair is a celebration of artistry and creativity, featuring a diverse range of handmade crafts across various mediums. From intricately designed jewelry and sculptural ceramics to stunning textiles and one-of-a-kind furniture pieces, the fair offers something for every art lover. With more than 140 artists participating, visitors can expect to be inspired by the exceptional craftsmanship and unique designs on display.
Featured Artists
This year’s fair will showcase a talented lineup of artists from across the country. Each artist brings their own unique style and artistic vision, creating a dynamic and diverse collection of craftwork. From established names to up-and-coming talents, the Rittenhouse Fine Craft Fair provides a platform for artists to showcase their best work. Visitors can engage with the artists, learn about their creative process, and even purchase directly from them.
Tickets and Admission
Ticket Prices
Attending the Rittenhouse Fine Craft Fair is a great value for art enthusiasts. Tickets are priced at $10 for adults and $5 for children aged 12-18. Children under 12 can enter for free. The ticket prices provide access to the fair for both days, allowing visitors to explore the extensive range of crafts at their own pace.
Discounts and Promotions
The organizers of the fair strive to make it accessible to a wider audience through various discounts and promotions. Seniors aged 65 and above can enjoy a discounted ticket price of $8. Students with a valid ID can also receive a discounted ticket price of $5. Additionally, there will be promotional offers available on the fair’s official website, including special discounts for online ticket purchases.
Group Packages
For those planning to attend the fair as a group, there are group packages available. Groups of 10 or more people can enjoy a discounted rate of $8 per person. This is a great option for art clubs, school groups, or even friends and family who want to experience the fair together. Group packages must be purchased in advance through the fair’s official website to avail of the discounted rate.
Exhibitor Information
Application Process
The Rittenhouse Fine Craft Fair welcomes applications from artists across different craft disciplines. The application process is simple and straightforward. Artists interested in participating in the fair need to submit an online application through the fair’s official website. The application requires artists to provide basic contact information, a brief artist statement, and images of their work. The jury of experienced professionals will review all applications and select the participants based on the quality, originality, and craftsmanship of their work.
Selection Criteria
The jury panel carefully evaluates each application to ensure that the fair presents the highest caliber of craftsmanship. The selection criteria include originality, technique, design, and overall artistic merit. The panel seeks to curate a diverse range of crafts that showcase different artistic styles and approaches. This ensures that visitors to the fair can enjoy a wide array of high-quality crafts and experience the richness of contemporary craft in one location.
Exhibitor Categories
The fair encompasses a wide range of craft disciplines, divided into distinct categories. These categories include ceramics, jewelry, textiles, woodwork, glasswork, metalwork, and mixed media. By organizing the fair into categories, visitors can easily navigate the event and explore specific areas of interest. Whether you have a passion for ceramics or a fascination with textiles, you’ll find an abundance of artists and craftspeople specializing in your preferred medium.
Fair Schedule
Opening Hours
The fair will open its doors to the public from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM on both days. This allows visitors ample time to explore the fair, engage with the artists, and carefully consider their purchases. Early birds can take advantage of the morning hours to beat the crowds and have a leisurely browsing experience.
Demonstrations and Workshops
Throughout the fair, there will be a schedule of live demonstrations and interactive workshops conducted by the participating artists. These demonstrations provide a unique opportunity for visitors to witness the meticulous craft process firsthand and gain insights into the artists’ techniques and creative approaches. Workshops offer a hands-on experience, allowing visitors to try their hand at a specific craft under the guidance of seasoned professionals.
Live Performances
To enhance the overall experience, the fair will also feature live performances by local musicians and performers. The performances will be scheduled at various times during the day, providing a lively and entertaining atmosphere for visitors to enjoy. Whether you take a break from exploring the crafts or simply want to immerse yourself in the vibrant ambiance, the live performances are sure to add an extra touch of magic to your visit.
Venue Facilities
Parking Options
Rittenhouse Square Park is located in a central area of Philadelphia, offering several parking options for fair attendees. There are both street parking and parking garages available within walking distance of the park. However, as parking can be limited, it is recommended to arrive early to secure a spot. Visitors may also consider using public transportation or rideshare services to easily reach the fair without the hassle of parking.
Restrooms and Amenities
The fair organizers understand the importance of providing convenient amenities to ensure a comfortable experience for all attendees. Throughout the fairgrounds, there will be restroom facilities available for public use. These facilities will be regularly cleaned and maintained to meet the highest hygiene standards. Additionally, there will be seating areas, shaded spots, and water stations strategically placed throughout the park for visitors to take a break and recharge.
Accessibility
The Rittenhouse Fine Craft Fair aims to be an inclusive event that caters to individuals with diverse needs. The fairgrounds are wheelchair accessible, with ramps and designated pathways for easy navigation. Additionally, there will be accessible parking spaces reserved for visitors with disabilities. Visitors who require additional assistance or have specific accessibility concerns are encouraged to reach out to the fair organizers in advance to ensure their needs are met.
Food and Refreshments
On-site Dining Options
While attending the fair, visitors can indulge in delicious food from a range of on-site dining options. Local food vendors and food trucks will be stationed throughout the fairgrounds, offering a diverse selection of culinary delights. From gourmet sandwiches and wood-fired pizza to mouthwatering desserts, there’s something to satisfy every craving. Whether you prefer a sit-down meal or a quick snack on the go, the on-site dining options are sure to satiate your appetite.
Food Vendor Information
The fair organizers carefully select food vendors who align with the event’s ethos of quality and excellence. The participating vendors will offer a variety of cuisines, including vegetarian and vegan options to cater to different dietary preferences. Expect to find fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and a commitment to delivering a memorable dining experience.
BYO Policy
While there are plenty of dining options available on-site, visitors are also welcome to bring their own food and beverages to the fair. This is particularly convenient for those who have specific dietary restrictions or prefer to bring their own picnic supplies. However, it’s important to note that alcohol is not permitted within the fairgrounds. Visitors are kindly asked to consume any outside food or beverages in designated picnic areas to maintain the cleanliness and beauty of the park.
Souvenirs and Shopping
Artist-inspired Merchandise
Supporting the artists and taking home a piece of their craftsmanship is a popular aspect of attending the Rittenhouse Fine Craft Fair. In addition to the artists’ main exhibits, there will also be a dedicated area for artist-inspired merchandise. This section offers an array of affordable and unique items such as prints, postcards, pottery, and jewelry that capture the essence of the fair and make for ideal souvenirs or gifts.
Payment Options
When it comes to making purchases at the fair, visitors have a variety of payment options available. Most of the exhibitors accept major credit cards, ensuring a seamless shopping experience. However, it’s always a good idea to carry some cash, as a few vendors may not have card payment facilities. ATMs will be strategically placed within the fairgrounds for convenience, allowing visitors to easily withdraw cash if needed.
Carrying Assistance
The fair organizers understand that some of the craft pieces can be quite large or delicate, making it challenging for visitors to carry them around. To alleviate this concern, there will be a carrying assistance service available on-site. Visitors who make purchases can have their items securely stored at the designated checkout area and pick them up later when they are ready to leave. This ensures a hassle-free shopping experience, allowing visitors to fully enjoy their time at the fair without worrying about carrying their purchases.
Entertainment and Activities
Children’s Area
The Rittenhouse Fine Craft Fair aims to provide entertainment and activities for visitors of all ages. Families with children will be delighted to discover a dedicated children’s area within the fairgrounds. This area will feature interactive art installations, creative workshops, and engaging activities designed specifically for young visitors. Children can immerse themselves in hands-on craft projects, try their hand at pottery or painting, and unleash their creativity in a safe and supportive environment.
Virtual Tours
For those who are unable to attend the fair in person or prefer to explore from the comfort of their own homes, virtual tours will be available. These immersive virtual experiences allow you to navigate through the fairgrounds, view the exhibits up close, and even interact with the artists through live video demonstrations and Q&A sessions. Virtual tours provide an excellent alternative for those who want to experience the Rittenhouse Fine Craft Fair remotely and still appreciate the artistry on display.
Artwork Photo Booth
Capture your memorable experience at the fair with the unique artwork photo booth. Located at a picturesque spot within the park, the photo booth provides the perfect backdrop for an artistic snapshot. Visitors can strike a pose surrounded by sculptures, paintings, or textile installations, and have their photo taken by a professional photographer. It’s a fun and creative way to commemorate your time at the fair and take home a tangible memory.
Tips for Attendees
Plan Your Visit
To make the most of your experience at the Rittenhouse Fine Craft Fair, it’s helpful to plan ahead. Take some time to review the list of participating artists and their exhibits, prioritize the ones you’re most interested in, and create a rough itinerary for your visit. Consider attending the fair on both days to fully explore all the crafts and activities on offer. Planning your visit ensures that you don’t miss out on any must-see exhibits and allows you to optimize your time at the fair.
Dress Code
The fair is held outdoors in Rittenhouse Square Park, so it’s important to dress appropriately for the weather conditions. As October can bring unpredictable weather, it’s advisable to dress in layers to adapt to changing temperatures. Comfortable footwear is essential, as you’ll be doing quite a bit of walking throughout the fairgrounds. Additionally, consider bringing a small backpack or tote bag to store any purchases or personal belongings.
Bring Cash
While most exhibitors accept credit cards, having some cash on hand can be beneficial. Some vendors may offer exclusive discounts or deals for cash purchases, and it’s always useful to have spare change for small transactions or tips. ATMs will be available on-site, but having cash readily available can save time and ensure a smooth shopping experience.
Community Involvement
Charitable Partnerships
The Rittenhouse Fine Craft Fair goes beyond celebrating craftsmanship; it also aims to make a positive impact in the community. The fair partners with local charities and nonprofit organizations to provide support and raise awareness for their causes. A portion of the ticket proceeds will be donated to these charitable partners, allowing attendees to contribute to important initiatives while enjoying the fair.
Educational Initiatives
Education is a key focus of the Rittenhouse Fine Craft Fair. In addition to the live demonstrations and workshops, there will be educational initiatives aimed at fostering an appreciation for craftsmanship and creativity. These initiatives include guided tours led by experts who provide insights into the artists’ work and the craft process. Educational materials and resources will also be available for educators and students to further explore the world of fine craft.
Volunteer Opportunities
The fair offers volunteer opportunities for individuals who want to contribute their time and skills to the event. Volunteers play a vital role in ensuring the smooth operation of the fair, assisting with various tasks such as visitor services, artist support, and event logistics. Volunteering at the Rittenhouse Fine Craft Fair not only allows you to be part of an exciting event but also gives you the opportunity to connect with artists, learn about fine craft, and contribute to the vibrant art community.
Attending the Rittenhouse Fine Craft Fair promises to be an enriching experience for art lovers of all ages. With its stunning location, diverse range of craft disciplines, and engaging activities, the fair offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned collector, a curious enthusiast, or simply looking for a fun day out, the Rittenhouse Fine Craft Fair invites you to immerse yourself in the world of fine craft and be inspired by the exceptional talent on display. Mark your calendar and get ready for an unforgettable weekend of art, creativity, and community.