Vanessa Williams became the first African American Miss America. The “Just Say No” anti-drug campaign launched and People Magazine named Michael Jackson among the “most intriguing.” Closer to home, the Granite Reef Senior Center debuted its first-ever Arts & Crafts Fair, a tradition that continues today.
The year …1983. Since then, the location changed, the merchandise evolved and the event grew with the times. For example, people now can enter Facebook contests to win great prizes, buy refreshments from food trucks and visit with a featured artist.
The Scottsdale Arts & Crafts Fair runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, November 16, at the center, 1700 N. Granite Reef Road. Admission is free.
While some things have changed, others have not. “The Arts & Crafts Fair continues to provide a fun gathering place where folks can discover unique gifts for holiday giving,” says Nick Molinari, event organizer.
In addition to more than 175 vendors and a handful of food trucks, the event includes a Kids’ Zone featuring balloon artist Ed Chee and Abrakadoodle Art, live music by Musaic & Jazzona, raffle prizes and free landscape design information from Harper’s Nursery. This year’s featured artist is Cheyenne L. Rouse from Cheyenne L. Rouse Fine Art Photography. Check out the senior center’s Facebook page at www.Facebook.com/ScottsdaleSeniors to learn how you can win one of her works of art.
On-site parking is available, but it may be limited. Overflow parking and trolleys will be available at Hohokam Elementary School, 8451 E. Oak St., to shuttle attendees to and from the event.
McDowell Village Senior Living is the event title sponsor. Other sponsors include Westminster Village, Sears Vacations, Lovin’ Life After 50, Scottsdale Airpark News, A-AAAKey Mini Storage, Paul Johnson Jewelers, the Springs of Scottsdale, the Valley Times and Harper’s Nursery.
To receive additional information about the event, call 480-312-1700 or visit www.ScottsdaleAZ.Gov/Seniors/ArtsandCraftsFair.
