Vineland’s artistic celebration for Thanksgiving
There’s something special about the sense of community at Twenty Valley Public School at Thanksgiving.
“We have a lot of loyal vendors who return each year, the parents, students, staff and volunteers are incredible, and it’s just a really great weekend,” said Tammy Pottie, one of the weekend’s Vineland Thanksgiving ARTfest, co-ordinators.
“We’re all like family and it’s a great community event that supports a great cause — the school and our students.”
The return rate of 120-plus artisans, she said, is about 80 per cent. Not only do they enjoy the show, they also enjoy the idea of giving back. While the festival is free to attend, exhibitor fees benefit the school.
“They appreciate and want to participate because they know the funds go to the school and support the students,” said Pottie.
The end result is thousands of dollars a year supporting students and their families. Last year the funds raised supported extracurricular trips, speakers and artists visiting the school, sports teams and clubs, student agendas and more.
Exhibitors will be offering jewelry, textiles, woodwork, photography, soaps and much more.
“It’s a juried show, so we have a lot of great quality items and unique, interesting things,” said Pottie.
There will also be a variety of food vendors and a wine garden, in memory of former event coordinator Barb Hall. The festival runs 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday tpo Monday. For more information on the festival, visit https://bit.ly/2pC7E6Ml.