Outdoor arts and crafts fair with colorful booths.

Aiken's Makin' Celebrates 48 Years of Arts and Crafts This Weekend

September 6, 2024

Aiken's Makin', one of the Augusta area's most anticipated arts and crafts festivals, returns for its 48th year this weekend. The event will take place on Friday and Saturday along Park Avenue in downtown Aiken, featuring over 200 vendors showcasing a wide array of handmade goods and creative works. Admission is free, making it a must-visit for art enthusiasts and families alike.

Key Takeaways

Event Dates: September 6-7
Location: Park Avenue, Aiken, SC
Hours: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday
Admission: Free
Number of Vendors: Over 200
Parking: Available in legal spots around the event area
Handicap Parking: Available on Fairfield Street
Rain or Shine: Event will proceed regardless of weather

What to Expect

Aiken's Makin' promises a vibrant atmosphere filled with colorful paintings, creative crafts, and the delightful aromas of funnel cakes and kettle corn. Attendees can look forward to a diverse range of handmade items, including:

Folk Art: Unique and culturally rich pieces
Pottery: Beautifully crafted ceramics
Personalized Gifts: Custom-made items perfect for gifting
Handmade Clothing: Unique apparel
Basket Weaving: Intricately woven baskets
Iron Work: Durable and artistic metal crafts
Candles: Scented and decorative candles
Textile Art: Creative fabric-based art
Hair Accessories: Stylish and handmade
Handbags and Accessories: Fashionable and unique
Handmade Cards: Personalized greeting cards
Leather Goods: High-quality leather products
Mosaic Art: Stunning mosaic pieces
Wood and Canvas Art: Beautifully crafted wooden and canvas artworks
Stained Glass: Colorful and intricate glass art
Food Items: Sweets, dips, jams, and homemade pickles

Event Details

Hours of Operation:

Friday, September 6: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Saturday, September 7: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Location:

The event will be held along Park Avenue between Chesterfield Street and Union Street in downtown Aiken.

Parking:

Guests can park in any legal parking spot on the side streets surrounding the event. Options include Newberry Street, the public library, and the grass along the railroad track on the east end of Park Avenue past Union Street.
Handicap parking is available on Fairfield Street near St. Mary’s Help of Christian Church.

Weather:

Aiken's Makin' is a rain or shine event. Attendees are encouraged to come prepared for any weather conditions.

Admission:

The event is free to attend.

Vendor Payments:

While most vendors are set up to take cash, credit, and some checks, it is advisable to bring multiple payment options.

ATMs:

An ATM is available at TD Bank located at 142 Chesterfield St. SE, Aiken, SC.

Pets:

While dogs are allowed, the event may not be ideal for them due to hot asphalt and crowded conditions. Owners are responsible for their pets and should bring water and waste bags.

Additional Information

For those interested in becoming a vendor for future events, applications are accepted from January 1 to February 27 each year. Artists and crafters enjoy the opportunity to chat with guests about their work and inspirations, making Aiken's Makin' a truly interactive and engaging experience.

Whether you're an art lover, a craft enthusiast, or simply looking for a fun weekend activity, Aiken's Makin' offers something for everyone. Don't miss out on this beloved community event!