What started out as a fund-raiser for area homemaker clubs has evolved into a weekend extravaganza – with hints of a social gathering.

"It's like a reunion. You get to see old friends from previous years, as well as meet new ones," said Meredith Donald about the annual Homemakers Arts and Crafts Show and Sale.

"You also get the opportunity to sell something you made yourself," added Donald, who, for 15 years, has sold her pillows, baby quilts and Christmas stockings at the annual arts and crafts show and sale.

This year marks the 25th anniversary of the two-day fundraiser, which is sponsored by the Mississippi Homemaker Volunteers. And while prices for many things have more than doubled in that span time, admission to the annual event has remained unchanged – 50 cents.

"I think that's one of its biggest attractions – that it costs so little to be able to participate," said Mary Welch, former home economist for the Lauderdale County Extension Service. Welch is credited as the event's founder.

"We started this as a fund-raiser for the homemaker club projects; they used to have to do several things to raise money for various projects," she said. "All items sold were made by the homemakers."

Held at the Mississippi/Alabama State Fair Grounds in its early years, the arts and crafts show and sale was eventually moved to its current location, the Frank Cochran Center in Highland Park.

In addition to a different venue, the annual event has experienced several other changes during its 25-year-history.

Previously, each homemakers club decorated a tree with ornaments made by the members. The trees were judged and the ornaments sold. The competition was discontinued to allow for more booth space, explained Patty Swearingen, county director for the Mississippi State University Extension Service.

Another change is that vendor participation is no longer limited to the homemakers clubs. Anyone can purchase a booth, however all items sold must be homemade.

"I'm looking forward to participating," said Charlotte Cates of Enterprise, a newcomer to the arts and crafts show and sale. Cates will sell children's clothing such as John Johns for little boys and dresses and pant sets for girls, as well as hair bows and other items.

The annual fundraiser continues to be a favorite among vendors and shoppers.

"Participating in this event is a good way for area craftsmen to sell their handmade items, plus it’s a great way for all of us to start our Christmas shopping early," said Swearingen.

For Darrel Harwell, the event is a family tradition. He started out helping his mother, Abbie Harwell, a homemaker, set up her booth and eventually helped her sell her wares. He eventually took over the booth and for 18 years has been showcasing his woodcrafts at the arts and crafts show and sale.

"It provides a little income to pay my taxes," said Harwell, whose wood crafts include serving trays, jewelry boxes, bird houses, tables, shelves, paper towel holders and other wood items.

He occasionally leaves his booth to check out the other vendors' wares.

"I like to walk around and check out the other booths – sometimes for inspiration and sometimes to just buy something," Harwell said.

Approximately 80 booths will be set up throughout the Cochran Center; an additional 20 vendors will be set up outside. A concession stand will be available with homemade vegetable soup, fish and chicken baskets, hamburgers, sausage dogs, cheese fries, funnel cakes and other delectibles sold.

Proceeds from the fund-raiser will go toward local community service projects.