Story by Blair Porter
This is a good little town, y'all. Not only is it chock full of gob-smacking natural beauty, but it's full of good people doing good things--and we're not the only ones that are noticing. The snow is great and all, but we happen to think summer time is when this salty gem truly shines. Farmers Markets, the Twilight Concert Series, and general patio dining/drinking are a few of our favorite things, so we're always delighted when the temps go up and the days draw just a little bit longer. And, of course, summertime wouldn't be complete without the annual Craft Lake City DIY Festival. Craft Lake City, which has been hosting local artisans and their wares in one fabulous downtown destination since 2008, is a non-profit on a mission.
250 crafty citizens in all.
Initially the brainchild of SLUG Magazine's Angela Brown, the DIY fest's noble goal is to "educate, promote and inspire local artisans while elevating the creative culture of the Utah arts community through science, technology and art," and we're absolutely down with that. Every year in the second week of August, Craft Lake City hosts a gathering of local artisans of all kinds. After receiving almost 800 applications across all categories this year, the CLC jury underwent the grueling task of selecting a handful of exhibitors to be featured on Gallivan Plaza--250 crafty citizens in all.
Every last bit is L-O-C-A-L
The accepted applicants represent a wide range of Utah's evolving DIY culture, and span from engineers and performers to vintage vendors and craft foodies. Here, you'll find goodies like handcrafted art, robot displays, musical performances, a kid's craft area, a motorcycle display, handmade jewelry, craft food and mini cocktail workshops, and so much more. Best part? Every last bit is L-O-C-A-L (so you can purchase that Johnny Cash painting or dozen molasses cookies with a completely clear conscience). Since Craft Lake City is a 501(c3) charitable organization, this shindig relies on the hands and hearts of hundreds of volunteers to make the event go off without a hitch.
Wanna get involved? Click the link below, or email [email protected]. And if you still can't get enough glue-gun goodness, Craft Lake City also hosts "monthly workshops, gallery shows, fundraisers and annual events" in an effort to "keep the community active, educated and aware of local DIY culture." The DIY Fest is an SLC summer staple, and a fabulous place to see just how damn talented our friends and neighbors are. A few photos below will give you an idea of fun had in years past. Come on out. Support local. Stay crafty.
Craft Lake City | Fri, Aug. 12th, 5 pm-10pm, Sat, Aug. 13th, 12pm-10 pm, Sun, Aug. 14th, 12pm-7pm | Gallivan Center, 239 S. Main St.
