Submitted photoAshley Swearingen and Barbara Rigdon get ready to put out signs promoting the upcoming Homemakers Arts and Crafts Show and Sale scheduled for this weekend.

There are many activities to choose from this weekend in Meridian, but locals don’t want to miss the annual Homemakers Arts and Crafts Show and Sale.

This year marks the 32nd anniversary of the two-day fundraiser, which is sponsored by the Mississippi Homemaker Volunteer Council. Previously held at the Frank Cochran Center in Highland Park, the event will take place this year at the Tommy E. Dulaney Center across from Meridian Community College.

 The event, first held at the old fairgrounds, started out as a means for area homemaker clubs to raise money for their projects. Now, 32 years later, it has evolved into a weekend extravaganza, allowing participating artists and craftsmen to earn money for their craft.

This year, more than 114 vendors will be on site with an array of handmade crafts to sell that include birdhouses, T-shirts, jams and jellies, jewelry, iron and metal works, canned goods, wood items, monogrammed clothing, wreaths, and Christmas items, along with homemade baked goods consisting of caramel cakes, cookies, cupcakes, and dips.

What draws shoppers back year after year? Patty Swearingen, Lauderdale County Coordinator for the Mississippi State University-Extension Service said reasons vary.

“One of the main things people love – the items are homemade, which is something every arts and crafts show does not offer,” Swearingen said. “One of their favorites is the baked items. A lot of shoppers come back each year looking for their favorite vendors. Plus it’s a great way for those early holiday shoppers to come out and get a jump start on their Christmas shopping.”

The Relay for Life Team from Coca-Cola and Piggly Wiggly of Collinsville will sell hamburgers, hotdogs, chips, drinks and other items.

Proceeds from the Homemakers Arts and Crafts Show and Sale will support local service agencies, including Care Lodge, LOVE’s Kitchen, Hope Village for Children and Feed By Faith.

Doors will open Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday noon to 5 p.m. 

Admission is $1. For more information call the Lauderdale County Extension Service 601-482-9764.