To enthusiasts of contemporary crafts and fine arts, “Sugarloaf Mountain Works,” sponsor of the Sugarloaf Crafts Festival at the Timonium Fairgrounds this weekend, is sweet music to the ears. Founded in 1975 by Deann and George Verdier, the original concept of the festival was to provide a low overhead marketplace where artists and craftspeople could sell their unique creations to the public.
Since the first show in the spring of 1976, with more than 10,000 people in attendance, the celebration has been moving full speed ahead. Industry publications that rank the popularity of arts and crafts festivals regularly place Sugarloaf in the Top 100 and often in the Top 10 in the United States.
More than 350 artisans from all across the country will be displaying their works in all three of the fairground?s exhibit halls. Jewelry, leather, sculpture, metal, wood and pottery will be showcased for sale. Specialty food stalls provide unique culinary offerings for inspired gift-giving. From baskets and bells to candles and rugs, Sugarloaf is committed to maintaining quality of design, workmanship and materials. Vendors chosen to participate have exhibited the highest standards of artistic excellence.
In addition to the mind-boggling display of creative wares, demonstrations by a number of the artisans will take place at 10 a.m., noon, 2 and 4 p.m. Saturday as well as at 11 a.m., 1 and 3 p.m. Sunday. Watching demonstrations such as glass blowing, wood sculpting and basket weaving “offers a unique way to appreciate the detail and beauty of a finished work of art,” according to the Verdiers.
Mike O?Brien, a graphic designer with Sugarloaf Mountain works, anticipates a weekend turnout in excess of 20,000.
“People who come in the spring really want to be here,” he explains. “It rejuvenates them.”
Several independent, on-site concessions will be selling treats such as Asian-grilled food, pit beef, and Vegetarian dishes.
Maryland State Fairgrounds is located off of I-83 North, Exit 17, Padonia Road East. Follow the signs to the grounds and parking areas. For additional information, and other Sugarloaf festivals this season, visit www.sugarloafcrafts.com.
Sugarloaf Crafts Festival
10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday
Maryland State Fairgrounds, Timonium
2200 York Road, Timonium
$7 (covers both days) Children under 12 free
Free parking
