Boston, Massachusetts, is widely known for being a diverse city that celebrates art, creativity, and community. In Boston there is literally something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to go antiquing at one of the many unique shops or you just want visit the multitude of historical sites, Boston will deliver. In addition, the city has more culinary creations than you’ll be able to take in one trip and enough live entertainment to last a lifetime. This cosmopolitan city has an artisan community that produces some of the finest and hard to find handmade items anywhere. Few events embody the artistic spirit of Boston, like the CraftBoston events in the winter and spring.
In a little under a decade CraftBoston has risen to become one of the foremost craft shows in the Northeast United States. Thousands of collectors and fans of art flock to the Hynes Convention Center to partake in this one-of-a-kind event. This is the perfect location for artists, fans, and collectors to meet, network, and support each other. Roughly 175 exhibitors will be showing off and selling their fine handmade items. You’ll find just about any art or craft you’re looking for from expert woodwork to fine jewelry. A special addition to CraftBoston Holiday is an appearance by actor, comedian, and carpenter, Nick Offerman. He will be putting on a talk named Sawdust and Mirth, which discusses the importance of making handmade objects. The location of the festival is ideal for those looking for additional shopping, with many unique boutiques in close proximity to the event. If you're looking for an immersive art experience like no other, make one of the CraftBoston exhibitions your destination. We interviewed Event Representative Samantha Loos, from The Society of Arts and Crafts, about CraftBoston Holiday and all the unique art and activities you’ll find there.
RAL: Tell me a little bit about CraftBoston Holiday.
SL: This December CraftBoston Holiday will be celebrating its eighth year. Both CraftBoston Spring and CraftBoston Holiday are comprised of 90 and 175 exhibitors respectively. CraftBoston Holiday draws 5,000 visitors annually and CraftBoston Spring draws about 4,000 visitors. We welcome all visitors regardless of age or background. The Society of Arts and Crafts offers reduced admission for seniors, students, and members. Children 12 years of age and under are free.
RAL: What makes CraftBoston Holiday unique?
SL: CraftBoston is a unique exhibition of fine, contemporary craft artists and makers. It is a wonderful venue within which artisans of varying media can display and sell their work. This year, SAC is proud to announce that Nick Offerman will be guest speaking at CraftBoston Holiday. In the past, we have held of a range of guest speakers, all of whom are working within the realm of contemporary craftsmanship.
RAL: What can attendees expect during a typical day at the event?
SL: CraftBoston visitors are given the opportunity to meet and discuss craft-making with artists from throughout the country and the world. Complimentary tours are offered with admission and are lead by CraftBoston and SAC staff. We offer media specific tours in ceramics, glass, furniture, fiber works, jewelry, leather goods, metal, and more! Staff will also lead to tours of local artists' booths, first year artists, and invited artists.
This year, SAC is pleased to announce that Nick Offerman will be speaking at CraftBoston on Friday, Dec. 11 at 1:30 pm. In his talk, titled Sawdust and Mirth, Offerman will discuss the importance of handmade objects. Offerman, an American actor, writer, comedian, and carpenter, is widely known for his breakout role as Ron Swanson in the acclaimed NBC sitcom Parks and Recreation.
RAL: What can an attendee expect to find for local lodging?
SL: The Society of Arts and Crafts recommends its exhibitors to the Sheraton Boston Hotel at the Hynes Convention Center. However, there are many hotels within walking distance of the convention center. Guests frequent a variety of hotels in Boston's Back Bay. The Sheraton Boston Hotel is adjacent to the Hynes Convention Center, approximately a six minute walk. In addition a couple of other options include Copley Square Hotel and the Boston Park Plaza Hotel & Towers.
RAL: What does CraftBoston Holiday mean to the community?
SL: The event supports the artists who exhibit at the event. It also supports The Society of Arts and Crafts, a non-profit organization.
RAL: Why should people come to your event?
SL: CraftBoston is an invaluable opportunity to meet with and support local, national, and international artisans. Contemporary craftspeople are exhibiting one-of-a-kind gifts, unlike anything found at a strip mall or big box store.
For more information about CraftBoston Holiday and The Society of Arts and Crafts please visit their website.