Craft fair comes home to Nature Center Nov. 5

Lake Erie Nature & Science Center kicks off the holiday season with the welcome return of the annual Christmas Carousel Craft Fair, presented by the Center’s Women’s Board.

The Craft Fair has been held at a number of off-site locations over the years, but returns to its roots at Lake Erie Nature & Science Center on Saturday, Nov. 5, from 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m.

Avoid the holiday rush while shopping for unique treasures for your loved ones – choose from a selection of arts, crafts, handmade goods and more. Just a few of the items featured this year: Pottery and Nature Photo Note Cards from Nancy & Vicki Horning's Earth Art Studio, Emille Illson's Button Down Designs (bracelets made from heirloom buttons of the 1840s-1940s) and natural beeswax and olive oil soaps, lotions and creams from Christine Rice's Morning Star Gardens.

The $3 admission fee will allow access to more than 20 local craftspeople and artisans as well as one free entry into the Carousel Raffle. Shoppers are encouraged to bring along the family to enjoy the Center’s free live animal exhibits, a walk in the beautiful Huntington Reservation or a star show in the Planetarium. Visitors may also take advantage of a selection of food, refreshments and homemade baked goods in the Carousel Café.  

The Craft Fair was conceived by the Center’s Women’s Board as a "Christmas Sale" back in 1968 to raise funds for the nonprofit Center. In 1969, when the Board celebrated their 15th anniversary as a volunteer organization, the title "Christmas Carousel" was born.

Since that day, the Women’s Board has continued to support the Center through service, leadership, community awareness and fundraising. Women of all ages, skills, experiences and talents are part of this dedicated group of volunteers. Members meet monthly for meetings, socials and arts & crafts, as well as giving their time to visit area seniors accompanied by some of the Center’s treasured animal ambassadors. New members are always welcome, and inquiries can be made by calling the Center at 440-871-2900.

Lake Erie Nature & Science Center is located at 28728 Wolf Rd. in Bay Village within the Huntington Reservation of the Cleveland Metroparks.