Arcola began hosting a craft show in 2003 at the Prairie Place Complex. Marie Milligan and Dora McKinnon began the event, which used to be hosted in Memorial Hall during Homespun. As Homespun grew it took on a Quilt Show, which would use Memorial Hall.
Since its inception nine years ago organizing has now fallen to Gwen Taylor who is happy to do it.
"It gives us smaller vendors a place to go, having it the same weekend as Homespun helps to get people to come out. Also ours gives space for trade items as well with Avon, Arbonne, and a number of others," Taylor explained.
This year was a great success seeing many people come through the doors. There were 31 vendors set up in Prairie Place selling everything from cosmetics, puzzle lamps, boots, homemade pies, canned goods, and fresh produce.
They came from across southeast Saskatchewan to take part in the day. People from Moosomin, Estevan, Weyburn, Langbank, Wawota, Radville, Lampman, Assiniboia, Glenavon, Frobisher, Carlyle, Kipling, and Arcola.
A concession was available throughout the day for people to enjoy. The Moose Mountain Air Cadets were in charge of this aspect of the day. All of the funds raised from the concession remained with the Cadets.
Tables were set up in the middle of Prairie Place for food and drinks to be enjoyed. Visitors were seen enjoying the company of other Craft Sale goers as they enjoyed what Arcola had to offer, which was great variety and a pleasant, friendly atmosphere.
Overall the day saw an abundance of items available with many people coming and going over the course of the day. People were impressed with the variety and extremely happy to have stopped in at the event.
