By Andrea K. Hammer
In South Jersey, a full line-up of ongoing craft shows provide residents and visitors with an important way to support artists and drive tourism as well as revenue to local businesses. A recent report from American for the Arts indicates that the nonprofit arts industry generates $166.3 billion in economic activity annually including spending by organizations and their audiences. This economic activity supports 4.6 million jobs and results in $27.5 billion in government revenue.
According to this research, arts attendees spend $31.47 per person, per event, beyond the cost of admission on items such as meals, parking and lodging—essential revenue for local businesses. Arts travelers are considered excellent tourists who remain longer and spend more at desirable locations, where they search for engaging culture experiences.
Here are several upcoming craft shows and sales lighting up the holiday season in South Jersey:
Holiday Crafts & Collectibles Show at Cape May MAC–Celebrating Museums, Art and Culture
On Nov. 29 and 30, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., the Cape May MAC Holiday Craft Show promises visitors a range of unique gift discoveries.
“Crafters and artisans from throughout the region will be displaying their creations, including handmade jewelry, original photography, miniatures, fresh holiday greenery and handmade wreaths, hand-crafted pottery, handmade knitwear, original artwork and more,” said Susan Krysiak, Cape May MAC director of media relations.
“Cape May MAC offers visitors multiple indoor and outdoor crafts and collectibles shows in every season throughout the year. There are 22 shows planned for 2025. The outdoor shows are at the beautiful grounds of the historic Emlen Physick Estate, and the indoor shows are at Cape May Convention Hall, a comfortable and spacious setting for the colder months. Cape May is a wonderful historic place to visit, with wonderful restaurants and accommodations and Cape May MAC tours, activities and events to enjoy year-round.”
For more information, visit capemaymac.org. Artisans can find out more about being part of Cape May MAC shows here: https://capemaymac.org/crafts-and-collectibles/.
Holiday Studio Sale at WheatonArts Event Center in Millville
At the WheatonArts Event Center in Millville, N.J., the Holiday Studio Sale will run from Nov. 29 through Dec. 8, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Handcrafted ceramic and glass items will be available at 30-70% off original prices.
A table will be set up at the free-admission sale for visitors to create their own unique gift tags. Proceeds from the sale support individual artists and arts programming at WheatonArts.
Trunk shows will be held in the Museum Stores on Nov. 29 to Dec. 1 and Dec.14. Pieces from the collections of Chris Coffman, Lorraine Haddock and Susan Boyce will also be featured. During the last day of the Holiday Studio Sale, free family nature art activities are scheduled.
Visitors will find The Museum of American Glass at the heart of the Center, which is one of only nine museums in New Jersey to be accredited by the American Alliance of Museums.
Learn more about the Holiday Studio Sale and programs throughout the year at http://www.wheatonarts.org.
Artisan Holiday Market at Grounds For Sculpture in Hamilton
On Nov. 30 and Dec. 1, more than 40 local artisans will sell handcrafted jewelry, pottery, woodworking and original art at Grounds For Sculpture. Visitors may also explore 42 acres of art- filled gardens and collections in the galleries. Sculptural works and installations by American and international artists include wood, bronze, stone, stone, steel and paper.
Slow Motion, an indoor and outdoor art exhibition curated by Monument Lab at Grounds For Sculpture, reimagines the material possibilities of public memory. The exhibition, which runs through Sept. 1, 2025, will feature the work of artists who make their mark through unconventional materials and processes.
Upcoming activities include family open studios, winter wreath making and tots for
sculpture. For more information, see https://www.groundsforsculpture.org/
Ventnor Holiday Art Show & Sale
On Dec. 7 and 8 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., the Ventnor Cultural Arts Center will hold the annual holiday art show and sale. The work of local artists, including handmade items, will be available for sale. Live music and treats will create a festive atmosphere at the center, which is located in the Ventnor Library building.
In addition, the center offers ongoing pottery, painting and jewelry-making classes. Along with dance and yoga classes for children and adults, participants may join a variety of workshops.
For additional details, see https://www.ventnorarts.org/
Holiday Market & Gingerbread Village at Noyes Arts Garage of Stockton University in Atlantic City
On Dec. 14 and 15 from noon to 5 p.m., vendors will display and sell handmade items, which add a personal touch during the gift-giving season. Visitors are invited to vote on their favorite gingerbread house throughout the event weekend. This year’s theme is “favorite fictional home.” Santa will also delight children, who are interested in great photo opportunities.
Featuring a full line-up of ongoing art classes and workshops, the Arts Garage has scheduled a toy drive and poetry open mic event during the holiday season. Affiliated with the Noyes Museum of Art in Hammonton, the Noyes Arts Garage of Stockton University promotes education and provides resources for emerging artists.
For more information, visit https://noyesmuseum.org/
