A “Craft Fair with a Heart” is on tap next week at the Afook-Chinen Civic Center’s Butler Building in Hilo.
For the second year, the Rotary Club of Hilo is hosting its Kamaaina Christmas Craft Fair, a local-style craft fair that places an emphasis on “made on this island” gifts. The fair is slated for 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 12, and Saturday, Dec. 14, and 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 13.
Come visit and shop local crafters, who will offer many handcrafted items perfect for holiday giving.
“There are so many talented crafters here on our beautiful island,” said Marcia Prose, chairperson for the Rotary event. “We don’t allow any ‘resellers’ in our fair, so you won’t find purses made in China or T-shirts produced in Hong Kong. Only original, handcrafted items that offer a piece of aloha from the Big Island.”
What makes this event a “Craft Fair with a Heart”?
Not only will you find friends and neighbors — shoppers and vendors — but you will find two charitable organizations and Waiakea High School students involved.
The Salvation Army will have its “Angel Tree” set up from 2-5 p.m. Thursday and 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Friday. When Christmas comes, prisoners’ children often wonder, “Does my mommy or daddy still love me? Do they even remember me anymore?” Shoppers can select a card from the Angel Tree that explains what one of these deserving children wants for Christmas. Then the person buys that present and returns it to the Salvation Army for distribution.
Plus, Waiakea High School Interact (Rotary for middle and high school students) will provide gift wrapping by donation starting at 3 p.m. Friday and all day Saturday.
“What better way for Rotary to mentor and encourage our youth than to have an opportunity for students to experience a retail situation.“ said Anita Tatum, Interact Rotary chairperson.
Shoppers are invited to stop by the Rotary booth inside the building and pick up an entry blank to win a door prize — and learn a bit about Rotary and the Rotary Club of Hilo. The club has a focus on many projects around the world.
Hosting this craft fair is a local project, encouraging economic development right here in East Hawaii.
There is no admission fee to attend the fair and shoppers will find plenty of parking at the Butler Building.