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Charles Boehm Middle School’s Annual Craft Show marked its 34th year on November 2, bringing together the local community for this long-established fall tradition.
Held at the middle school, located at 866 Big Oak Rd. in Yardley, this PTO fundraiser welcomed over 1,500 attendees. This well-attended event featured over 150 juried craftspeople and artists selling their unique handcrafted items like artisan jewelry, intricately sewn knit scarves, delicate glass ornaments, seasonal scented candles, and holiday-themed decor.
The annual craft show draws current students, parents, alumni, staff, and area residents, with some crafters participating for over 20 years. Shoppers of all ages browsed through the crowded hallways filled with vendors’ tables, many carrying bags filled with unique finds.
This show served as the perfect setting for visitors to begin their holiday shopping experience. It also fostered local small businesses by providing artisans a chance to sell their creations.
In addition to shopping for crafts, visitors indulged in food and beverages at the school’s café and homemade baked goods at the bake sale. A 50/50 raffle, in addition to raffle baskets, for which each artisan donated an item, were also available.
Proceeds from this event are used to benefit the school and students, which vary each year based on the current needs of the school and student body.
Donna Gross, PTO President, coordinated the craft show and emphasized the community’s excitement and loyalty to this annual event. “It’s a long-standing cherished tradition, an event that the community and crafters look forward to each year,” she shared. This craft show was briefly relocated to Pennwood Middle School last year due to construction at Boehm, but it returned to its home location this year.
The PTO, staff, administrators, students, parents, and alumni all come together to support the event by volunteering their time. Local businesses in the community provide donations and offer special pricing for supplies needed to ensure the show’s success. “It’s truly a collaborative effort to put this event together,” said Gross.
“This annual community-based craft show is a cornerstone event that brings immense benefits to our school community,” said Charles Boehm Middle School Principal Stephanie Hultquist. “It serves as a vibrant platform for local artisans to showcase their talents, while simultaneously fostering a spirit of creativity and collaboration among students, teachers, and community members. Furthermore, the craft show strengthens community bonds, encouraging a supportive network that values and nurtures the arts. This synergy not only enriches the educational experience but also cultivates a sense of pride and belonging within our community.”
Looking ahead, Gross hopes that the school’s recent expansion may provide additional space for a small number of vendors in the future, as the event consistently sells out with a waiting list of eager crafters.