Mark your calendars for New England’s most anticipated artisan showcase – the 2024 Deerfield Craft Fair returns to the Big E fairgrounds on September 21-22 and December 7-8. Building on the success of previous Deerfield Craft Fair events, this year’s gatherings promise an extraordinary celebration of handcrafted excellence, featuring over 200 juried artisans from across the region. Whether you’re searching for one-of-a-kind holiday gifts or seeking inspiration from master craftspeople, these twice-yearly events transform Western Massachusetts into a vibrant marketplace of creativity. Early-bird tickets are already available online, offering special discounts for weekend passes and group bookings. With consistently high attendance expected, securing your preferred dates now ensures you won’t miss this beloved New England tradition that has delighted art enthusiasts and families for over four decades.
2024 Deerfield Craft Fair Schedule
Spring Fair Dates
Mark your calendars for the vibrant Spring edition of the Deerfield Craft Fair, scheduled for May 18-19, 2024. This cherished springtime event brings together over 150 talented artisans against the backdrop of blooming New Hampshire countryside. Saturday hours run from 9 AM to 5 PM, while Sunday welcomes visitors from 10 AM to 4 PM. Spring fair attendees can expect a delightful mix of seasonal crafts, including garden decorations, handmade jewelry, spring-themed home décor, and fresh florals. The fair’s timing perfectly coincides with Mother’s Day season, making it an ideal destination for finding unique, handcrafted gifts. Early birds will appreciate the fresh morning air and first pick of the artisans’ latest creations, while afternoon visitors can enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and potential end-of-day deals.
Fall Fair Dates
Mark your calendars for the enchanting autumn season at Deerfield Craft Fair! The 2024 Fall Fair dates are set for September 21-22 and September 28-29, offering two spectacular weekends to experience New England’s premier craft gathering. The fair runs from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM each day, allowing plenty of time to explore the hundreds of artisan booths nestled among the vibrant fall foliage.
The September weekends are strategically chosen to coincide with peak fall colors in New Hampshire, creating a magical backdrop for this beloved event. Each weekend features a unique lineup of craftspeople, making it worth visiting both weekends to experience the full range of artisanal offerings. Early birds will find the best selection on Saturday mornings, while Sunday afternoon shoppers often discover special end-of-fair deals.
For the best experience, we recommend attending the first weekend (September 21-22) when the weather tends to be milder and the crowds slightly smaller. However, the second weekend often features special harvest-themed demonstrations and activities that make it equally appealing.
What’s New for 2024
The 2024 Deerfield Craft Fair is leveling up with exciting additions that will delight both returning visitors and newcomers. Building on its reputation as one of New England’s premier local artisan markets, this year’s fair introduces a dedicated “Emerging Artists Pavilion” showcasing work from talented newcomers across New Hampshire.
Food enthusiasts will love the expanded culinary corner, featuring live cooking demonstrations by regional chefs using locally sourced ingredients. The new “Heritage Skills Workshop Series” offers hands-on experiences where visitors can learn traditional crafts like basket weaving, pottery, and woodworking from master artisans.
Kids will enjoy the enhanced Children’s Creation Station, complete with supervised craft activities, face painting, and storytelling sessions. We’re also excited to welcome over 40 first-time vendors, bringing fresh perspectives and unique handcrafted items to the fair.
For 2024, we’ve improved the layout to create more spacious walkways and added covered rest areas throughout the grounds. Early bird shoppers will appreciate our new morning reception area, serving complimentary local coffee and pastries to the first 100 visitors each day. Don’t miss the sunset artisan demonstrations, a magical new addition to our evening programming.
Planning Your Visit
Location and Parking
The Deerfield Craft Fair takes place at the historic Deerfield Fairgrounds, located at 34 Stage Road in Deerfield, New Hampshire. Getting there is a breeze – just follow Route 43 to the heart of Deerfield, where you’ll spot the fairground’s iconic entrance gates. Free parking is available on-site, with dedicated lots offering ample space for thousands of vehicles. Early birds can snag spots closest to the craft pavilions, while overflow parking includes shuttle service to the main entrance. For those using GPS, enter “Deerfield Fairgrounds” or the street address for precise directions. Handicap parking spaces are available near all entrance gates, and friendly parking attendants are always ready to help guide you to the perfect spot.
Accommodation Options
Looking for a cozy place to rest during the Deerfield Craft Fair? You’ll find plenty of welcoming options nearby. The Chesterfield Inn offers charming rooms with stunning mountain views, perfect for craft fair visitors seeking comfort. For outdoor enthusiasts, Woodmore Campground provides spacious sites with full hookups, just minutes from the fairgrounds.
Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the Pine Grove Campground, offering both tent and RV sites in a peaceful forest setting. Several local bed & breakfasts, including the historic Stone House Farm, provide intimate accommodations with homemade breakfast. For extended stays, consider booking an Airbnb in Deerfield village – many hosts offer special craft fair weekend rates and insider tips about the event.
Remember to book early, as accommodations fill up quickly during fair weekends!
What to Bring
Make your craft fair experience comfortable and enjoyable by packing these essentials! Bring a reusable water bottle and snacks to stay energized throughout the day. Don’t forget cash and a credit card, as some vendors may have limited payment options. A sturdy tote bag or backpack is perfect for carrying your purchases, and bringing your own shopping bags helps reduce plastic waste.
Wear comfortable walking shoes and dress in layers – New Hampshire weather can be unpredictable. Consider bringing a portable chair or blanket if you’d like to rest while enjoying live entertainment. A small umbrella or rain jacket is wise for unexpected showers. Don’t forget your camera or phone to capture special moments and beautiful handcrafted items.
For summer dates, pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. Your shopping list and measurements for specific items you’re seeking will help you make the most of your visit.
Local Attractions to Combine with Your Visit
Make the most of your craft fair visit by exploring the natural wonders and attractions around Chesterfield. The Pisgah State Park, just minutes away, offers over 13,000 acres of pristine wilderness with hiking trails suitable for all skill levels. Pack a picnic lunch and discover scenic viewpoints overlooking the Connecticut River Valley.
History buffs will appreciate the Chesterfield Historical Society Museum, where you can learn about the region’s rich heritage through fascinating exhibits and artifacts. The nearby Madame Sherri Forest features mysterious castle ruins and well-maintained trails, perfect for a morning adventure before heading to the craft fair.
For water enthusiasts, Spofford Lake provides excellent opportunities for kayaking, swimming, and fishing during the warmer months. In contrast, winter events in the area transform the landscape into a snow-covered playground for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
Don’t miss the charming downtown area, where local restaurants serve farm-to-table cuisine and boutique shops offer unique finds. The Chesterfield Gorge Natural Area, just a short drive away, presents spectacular photo opportunities with its dramatic rock formations and rushing waters. Consider booking a guided nature walk with local experts who can share insights about the area’s flora and fauna.
Don’t miss out on being part of this cherished New Hampshire tradition! With the 2024 Deerfield Craft Fair promising to be another spectacular showcase of artistry and community spirit, now is the perfect time to start planning your visit. Mark your calendars, book your accommodations early, and consider registering as a vendor if you’re an artisan – spots fill up quickly for this beloved event. Stay connected with the fair’s social media channels and official website for registration deadlines and early-bird specials. Remember, the best experiences at Deerfield come from careful planning and early preparation. Join us in celebrating another year of exceptional craftsmanship, warm community spirit, and unforgettable memories in the heart of New Hampshire!