On Saturday, November 11th, Scituate High Opportunities & Resources for Education (SHORE) will host its popular holiday arts and crafts fair in the high school gymnasiums from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Showcasing over 80 artisans, the fair is free to the public. Miss Emily’s Food Truck will be available for lunch or snacks, and multiple raffles will be incorporated, making this event even more exciting!
Last year, there were over 1500 shoppers at the fair, and this year, SHORE organizers are hoping for even more. Dozens of high school student volunteers energized the atmosphere, adding to the festivities. According to SHS parent and SHORE volunteer Lisa Garabedian, “Students and volunteers were so considerate, friendly, and helpful. I especially liked that the volunteers helped unload and load crafts from car to booth, which made the entire experience from start to finish very enjoyable.”
Since 1990, SHORE has provided over $1 million in grant money to benefit SHS students. Garabedian said the organization “provides financial support for the three A’s: Academics, Arts, and athletics through applied grants from students and teachers.” Proceeds from the fair fund teachers and students with great ideas for projects, materials, and events to share with the high school community. This is SHORE’s fourth year sponsoring the Arts & Crafts Fair.
All participating artisans offer homemade products, many of them holiday-themed. Garabedian commented, “We are excited there are 19 local artists at the fair this year. This year’s unique crafts for sale include 15 jewelry designers, crochet items, beautiful pottery, notecards, pet items, art, food, gifts, and much more.”
Several SHS students and high school organizations will sell items during this year’s fair: “There are six student clubs who are participating in the fair. They will sell small gifts and items to raise money for various causes,” Garabedian explained. Although student musicians have traditionally performed during the fair, holiday music will be piped through speakers this year to “set the mood for holiday shopping.”
The raffle table is a favorite part of the fair for shoppers and artisans. Each artist donates an item from their table to contribute to the raffle, and everyone loves the chance to win! All proceeds from the raffle go to SHORE for the student and teacher grants.
New to the fair this year, SHORE is planning a surprise holiday photo scene in front of the Performing Arts Center! Patrons can get their holiday photos done for a $10 (suggested) donation.
SHS students seeking to complete community service hours are encouraged to volunteer during the fair. Garabedian explained, “We want approximately 80 students and adult volunteers for the fair to run smoothly. The volunteers are a big part of the success and artisan satisfaction and enjoyment. The volunteers help us set up both the large and small gym, direct traffic flow, load and unload handmade products, and check in with the artisans throughout the day. We need more volunteers to sign up ASAP to make a smooth and successful event for all.”
Garabedia added, “The fair was a great success last year and has been for several years; thus, we expect the same or even more remarkable results this year. With original handmade artwork, fulfilling entertainment, and food trucks, you can’t go wrong by stopping by and showing your support to our SHS community. We hope to see you there!”