By Hannah Van Vlack
The Mt. Mitchell Arts and Crafts Fair is returning for its 67th year, bringing together local artistry and culture. This year’s event will take place on Friday, August 2, and Saturday, August 3, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visitors can explore downtown Burnsville as it is transformed into a hub of handmade arts and crafts.
“As a juried event, the Mt. Mitchell Crafts Fair features more than 225 vendors, ensuring that only the finest local and regional artists participate,” says Elaine Mann, director of the Yancey County Chamber of Commerce. “This strict selection process guarantees a high standard of craftsmanship, with no mass-produced or resale items allowed.” A wide variety of goods will be available at the fair, including jewelry, pottery, woodworking and textiles.
Melanie Saint-Jean who owns Of Sage and Stone, will return to the fair for the third time. “We make Reiki energy-infused jewelry, utilizing the natural energetic and healing properties of each individual stone,” she says. “Our bracelets are made under the new and full moon adding the extra benefit of cleansing and renewal. Informing the customer of the stone and its properties is first and foremost for me. I am not a medical doctor, so we do not prescribe; I only explain the known benefits of each stone. My question to them is, ‘Does it feel right?’” Pieces are designed to help solve issues, such as stress or physical pain, and to remind wearers of something they want to accomplish, like inner peace.
“I have always met wonderful new patrons at the craft fair,” says Saint-Jean. “More than 200 crafters and artisans located in one area is very rare, but Burnsville is the right backdrop as a peaceful mountain community.”
The fair will also feature live music rooted in the region, including bluegrass, country and gospel, acting and mountain dancing performances, and food trucks. “The fair is more than just an arts and crafts exhibition,“ says Mann. “It’s a celebration of the community and its traditions.”
The Mt. Mitchell Arts and Crafts Fair will be held on Main Street in Burnsville. For more information, visit YanceyChamber.com. Hannah Van Vlack is a senior at Western Carolina University studying Writing and Editing in Professional Environments and Music.
