The Kingsport Senior Center is once again inviting the community to step into a festive wonderland with its annual Old-Fashioned Christmas Fair. Taking place at the Kingsport Renaissance Center on November 22 and 23, this event, now entering its fifth year, showcases the talents of local crafters and offers residents the chance to snag unique homemade gifts just in time for the holidays.
With free admission, the fair will run from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on the 22nd and will conclude the following day from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Located on the first floor of the Renaissance Center at 1200 E. Center Street, more than 65 regional crafters will display their work, featuring an array of goods such as baskets, hand-sewn goods, and woodworking items. Although the refreshments will be available, provided by a roster of appealing food trucks, attendees seeking handmade crafts won't be disappointed.
"This event has been one of our more popular holiday events, where folks can come out and find the perfect, locally made personal gift,” said Senior Center Director Shirley Buchanan. “We’re certain the Old Fashioned Christmas Fair will get you in the holiday spirit. We hope you’ll join us." This sentiment echoes the community's growing interest in artisanal and locally sourced products, especially during a season of giving.
Visitors to the fair will be treated not only to the assortment of crafts but also to live musical performances throughout the two-day event. When wandering through rows of hand-crafted goods, guests might hear the dulcet tones of Tammy Martin’s Hammer Dulcimer or be serenaded by Martha Painter’s harp on the morning of the 23rd. Lynetta Johnson will also grace the event with the chimes of handbells, followed by the youthful strings of the Suzuki School of Music. All this entertainment has been scheduled to enrich the shopping experience.
For those looking to indulge in some local eats, food trucks such as Kickin Chicken Shack and Cornucopia will be present both days, along with Baked and Loaded on the 22nd. The Husky Mountain Eatery will round off the food truck offerings on the 23rd. These culinary delights ensure no shopper will browse on an empty stomach.
For detailed information about the Old Fashioned Christmas Fair, interested parties can visit the Kingsport Senior Center's website at seniors.kingsporttn.gov or ring up the Lynn View branch of the Kingsport Senior Center at 423-765-9047. As the holiday season draws near, events like these serve as a cornerstone for building community ties and celebrating the craftsmanship that thrives within it.
