The 36th Annual Arts & Crafts Faire drew thousands of visitors to Eisenhower Park at the Seal Beach Pier on Saturday and Sunday.
Many were there to find unique, hand-made art, jewelry and other crafted items for themselves or gifts for the coming holiday season. Others enjoyed the beachside atmosphere under sunny skies and visiting with friends including the event’s director belinda (who uses her first name with a lowercase “b” only), who for about 33 years ran Art on Glass on Main Street before moving to the mountains last year.
“It’s been great to see everyone,” she said, noting that many were happy to see her back in what she says she will always consider her “hometown” and that she had received so many invitations to visit friends that Arts and she could probably fill every weekend of the year.
Visitors crowded the many booths manned by local non-profit groups such as the Seal Beach Leos, who served up food and refreshments. The Woman’s Club of Seal Beach, the longest running charity organization in the nearly 100-year-old city, worked their annual plant sale. The Woman’s Club raised about $2,500 for its charity work and scholarships over the weekend.
“I’m happy when the nonprofits tell me they do so well,” belinda said. “I’m glad we can support the good things they do in the community.”
There were various different kinds of media including photographers, painters, and sculptors, providing eye candy for curious art lovers.
Director belinda said many of the participating artists have been regulars at the show for decades.
“We limit the number of people so it does not get too big and lose its atmosphere,” she said. “We also like to make sure we have real art and other things that are crafted by hand and fit the culture of what we are doing. We screen everything that people who apply to be part of the show want to bring to it.”
With another event succeeding as well as last weekend, belinda said the smiles filling the pier-side park, and enthusiasm of the artists, is worth all the hard work that goes into organizing it.
People can start to plan for the 37th Arts & Crafts Faire next year. For more information, call volunteer Carolyn Yamaoka at (562) 714-6524.
