Shop a curated collection by more than 200 skilled artisans and makers, learn more about local nonprofits, and enjoy activities and artists-in-residence during the inaugural Bozeman MADE fair, Oct. 20-21 at Brick Breeden Fieldhouse on the campus of Montana State University.
The upcoming MADE fairs in Bozeman, Helena, and Missoula have recently been named some of the Best Fall and Holiday Craft Fairs in the U.S. by Pop Shop America. These fairs, organized by HandMADE Montana, offer something for everyone from affordable functional art to heirloom fine art pieces.
In Bozeman, the fieldhouse offers plenty of room to shop, and the first 50 people each day receive a free tote bag.
The artists have been working long hours to get their products ready for the show. Preview artists and map a route online by checking the floor plan. Although most artists prefer cash, many are equipped to take credit cards, and an ATM is on site.
In addition to seeing creations by talented artisans from across the Montana, the MADE fair offers some fun entertainment and activities. Keep an eye peeled for the knitting dinosaur, who will be strolling around and posing for selfies; also on tap is a coloring contest for all ages, and a reading and signing of Waffles the Cat, A children’s book written and illustrated by Nick Mask.
Artists in Residence, including the Northern Rockies Woodworking Guild, Hustle and Throw and Historic Weaving, demonstrate techniques. Nonprofit groups Heart of the Valley Animal Shelter,
Emerson Center for the Arts & Culture and Jeannette Rankin Peace Center will be on hand as well.
Show hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday. Entry and parking are free; visitors are encouraged to bring a non-perishable food item to support the Gallatin Valley Food Band.
HandMADE Montana is a professional organization for art and handcrafted goods that organizes MADE fairs and workshops across Montana, provides resources to artists, and encourages growth and support via its community efforts.
Upcoming Holiday MADE fairs:
Helena MADE fair: second annual fair is Dec. 1-2 at the Lewis and Clark Fairgrounds
Missoula MADE fair: 12th annual event is Dec. 9 at the Adams Center