After a year off because of COVID-19, the Occoquan Fall Arts & Crafts Show will return to the streets of the downtown historic district from September 25 to 26 with fun, food, and, of course, loads of shopping.
The annual open-air event has been a staple of the community for over 50 years when the town of Occoquan closes its streets to host hundreds of artisans and crafters from across Virginia and the U.S. About 10,000 attendees visit the show each year.
Julie Little, events and community development director for the town of Occoquan, says that this year visitors can expect a handful of new vendors showcasing their work. And, for the first time, the event will also have a beer garden, hosted in River Mill Park (458 Mill St.) by local Prince William County brewery Water’s End.
The Occoquan Fall Arts & Crafts Show will offer a little something for everyone, from makers of ceramics and jewelry to watercolor artists and creators of unique home decor.
One new artisan that will exhibit during show weekend is Leah and Scott, a hand-poured, all-natural candle company born out of the pandemic. When West Virginia-based owners Lance Swearingen and Monica Moore both lost their jobs, the couple devised a plan to start their own business. In addition to candles, Leah and Scott has a collection of wax melts, room sprays, and bath bombs.
Other artists that will exhibit during show weekend include Alexandra Schmeling Fine Art, The Gnome Shop, Stix & Stones, The Urban Kiln, Kizmetz Handmade Eclectic Accents, The Pink Peony, Art Blanche Fine Arts, and CircuitBreakerLabs.
The show will also feature a food court with food tents and trucks, and each day attendees can relax and listen to a live local band; Just Wanna Play will headline on Saturday, with Redacted playing on Sunday.
The Occoquan Fall Arts & Crafts Show will take place rain or shine from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. The beer garden will be open daily from 12 to 5 p.m. The event is free to the public and there will be shuttle service into town from three area parking lots for $5 per person. (Kids 12 and under can ride for free.) All shuttle riders will be asked to wear a face covering while on board, but attendees will not be required to wear masks elsewhere at the event. For more information, visit occoquanva.gov.
Feature image by Kaitlan Marie Photography
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