The annual Sunnyside arts fair will take place Saturday with the event returning to an indoor setting. Artist Doug Condon (R) pictured with his son (L) at last year’s fair (Photo provided by Sunnyside Artists)
Nov. 30, 2022 By Michael Dorgan
The annual Sunnyside arts fair will take place Saturday with the event returning to an indoor setting.
The fair, which will offer items from more than 30 local artisans, will be held at the event’s traditional home at the Queen of Angels Church Parish Hall on Skillman Avenue from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
The popular event was held outdoors last year due to the pandemic — in a parking lot on 43rd Street — but it came to an abrupt end when a storm hit and upended many of the tents. COVID-19 forced its cancellation in 2020.
Attendees will get a chance to purchase a variety of works from artists including handmade jewelry, art, photography, pottery and accessories. There will also be wreaths, hand-carved wooden items as well as hand-sewn scarves and hats.
Many of the artists are local residents, and the fair provides them with an opportunity to showcase their works and bring in money, according to Sunnyside Artists, the non-profit group that organizes the event.
An artist showcasing some artwork at last year’s event (Photo provided by Sunnyside Artists)
The event, officially called the Sunnyside Artists Crafts and Arts Fair, was first established in 2007 and typically sees hundreds of attendees throughout the day.
Manny Gomez, a co-organizer of the event, said he is hoping residents will come out in force and support the artists.
“Last year, 13 tents were literally blown away by a freak storm, so we are more than relieved to be back in the Parish Hall,” Gomez said.
New to the fair this year will be a culinary competition where participants bake a fruitcake to try and win a cash prize. The winner will net $300 while the runner-up will get $200. There will be $100 for third place.
The event will also feature a number of raffles with prizes including wines and liquors, gift certificates from local stores, Polish treats, and even a squawking rubber chicken key ring.
Food will be provided by the caterer “De La Ollos,” while Lowery Wine & Liquors will offer a free glass of wine to attendees for every art purchase.
Patricia Dorfman, a co-organizer of the event, said the fair is a fantastic opportunity for residents to purchase holiday gifts while at the same time supporting the local economy.
The annual event also sets aside a portion of table fees to be donated to local food pantries.
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