Heidi Bleacher, artist
The 78th Craft Fair of the Southern Highlands will take place at Harrah’s Cherokee Center-Asheville from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Thursday through Sunday, July 17–20. Showcasing more than 100 vendors in a diverse range of crafts, from pottery and sculpture to textiles, jewelry and mixed media, the fair will celebrate the craftsmanship that defines the Southern Appalachian region while offering visitors the chance to engage with the artists behind the work.
Mark Traub, a member of the Southern Highland Craft Guild and long-time participant in the fair, highlights the importance of this event to both the local economy and culture. “The fair supports artists through direct sales and brings attendees who also spend time and money in the Asheville area, benefiting local businesses,” Traub explains. “It’s a gathering place for artists and their followers, many of whom return year after year, making it a great opportunity for us to reconnect with peers and celebrate our shared passion for craft.”
Traub and his wife Lynne will bring an assortment of handcrafted jewelry, including some pieces made from peyote stitch bead weaving. “Every piece we create is a blend of time-honored techniques and our own creative vision,” Traub says. Their offerings will include beaded necklaces, bracelets and earrings, as well as silver and copper pieces.
The event is an immersive experience that emphasizes both the process and the product of crafting. Throughout the fair, attendees can watch live demonstrations by master craftspeople. “The Guild is one of the oldest and most respected craft organizations in the country,” says Traub. “The sense of tradition, community and excellence sets this fair apart from any other.”
In October 2024, the Guild’s Craft Fair was canceled due to the catastrophic flooding caused by Hurricane Helene. The devastation affected not just the fair, but also the Guild’s historic Biltmore Village shop. “This summer’s Craft Fair is more than an event—it’s a symbol of our resilience,” says Tamela Wells, board director of the Southern Highland Craft Guild. “After the devastation of Hurricane Helene, we’re proud to gather again and celebrate the strength of our artists and the spirit of this community.”
Harrah’s Cherokee Center-Asheville is located at 87 Haywood Street, Asheville. Admission is $12 and children under 12 years old attend free. To learn more, visit CraftGuild.org/craftfair or call 828.298.7928.
