Artisan Christmas Festival set for Saturday

The Georgia Artisan Center located inside the welcome center in Perry is hosting their inaugural Artisan Christmas Festival. Bill Loudermilk, artisan/owner, said the festival is possible because of a grant the center received.

“We are thrilled here at the center because we were awarded a Vibrant Communities Grant from the Georgia Department of Economic Development’s Georgia Council for the Arts,” said Loudermilk. “With this grant, we are able to host a family fun day that is free to the public.”

The festival will take place this Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 101 General Courtney Hodges Blvd. Loudermilk said the festival is to take place both inside and outside of the center. Live demonstrations will take place throughout the day by local artisan members.

“Brandon McCuller is one of our local members and he will be doing a live demonstration on metal sculptures,” said Loudermilk. “Our local toy maker Phil Smith will be hosting ‘Santa’s Workshop.’ Kids will learn how to build a toy and then they can take it home. The cost is $10 per child. Those are just two of our artisan members and there will be many more conducting live demonstrations.”

Loudermilk said the festival is going to feature live music from Rolan Fall, associate pastor of Perry United Methodist Church. Additionally, there will also be a silent auction held that will feature handmade work from the artisans, and snacks will be available for purchase as well.

“We will also have non-member artisans conducting live demonstrations as well,” said Loudermilk. “Some of those will feature quilting, photography, pastels, glass artists, basketry and jewelry making. We just want everyone to come out and have a great time.”

HHJ News