Holiday Art Show and Sale Will Return at The Butler

YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – Another Mahoning Valley holiday tradition is returning after being canceled last year because of the pandemic.

An American Holiday Arts and Crafts Show and sale will take place Dec. 4 and 5 at The Butler Institute of American Art, 524 Wick Ave. Now in its 50th year, it is the area’s longest running holiday craft show, according to a press release from the museum.

The event will take place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Dec. 4, and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 5. Admission is $5 (free for children under 12).

The show is “a wonderful way to kick off the holiday season,” said Louis A. Zona, executive director of the museum. “This year is extra special because it is the 50th anniversary of the craft show, and we are happy to be able to resume the tradition after it was missed last year.”

An American Holiday Arts & Crafts Show is one of three juried art shows the Butler presents each year. It serves as the museum’s annual fundraiser to support and maintain the Butler’s free admission policy, as well as its free art education programs. 

The show features artists and crafters from near and far, selling works that make unique gifts in the historic and ornate museum’s galleries. Items will include pottery and ceramics; paintings, prints, and drawings; glass and décor; artisan jewelry, accessories, and fiber wearables; leather goods; metal goods; sculpture; wood works; herbal products and more. 

Participating artists and artisan vendors will also donate items for a chance auction that will also raise funds for the museum. The winning tickets will be drawn just before the close of the event on Sunday afternoon. Winners need not be present to win and will be notified by phone. 

“The Butler’s annual holiday craft show is a terrific opportunity for giving during the holidays in more ways than one,” said museum spokeswoman Wendy Swick. “It is the one time each year that the museum charges admission. [And] you can buy hand-crafted gifts on the spot without worrying if they will be shipped in time for the holidays.” 

Special guest at this year’s show will be renowned pinstriping artist Steve Chaszeyka, who will be giving away nameplates he created for The Butler (while supplies last).

Instead of the traditional buffet that was offered at past shows, prepackaged sandwiches prepared by AVI Foodsystems will be available for purchase. 

Pictured: Shoppers peruse items at the 2019 An American Holiday arts and crafts show at the Butler Institute of America Art. (Photo courtesy of the Butler Institute of American Art)

Published by The Business Journal, Youngstown, Ohio.