WEST SPRINGFIELD — This week’s warmer temperatures gave us a sample of spring. This weekend, visitors to the Old Deerfield Craft Fairs Spring Sampler got a taste of shopping fun.
Hundreds of shoppers on Saturday strolled around inside the Young Building at the Eastern States Exposition to browse the creations of 150 artisans — many of them new this year, and some long-time exhibitors.
“Sixty years I’ve been selling to the public. Can you imagine?” said artist Cheryl Normandie, as she stood in her stall, surrounded by her paintings. “I started way before there were arts and crafts shows.”
“I’ve been at the Deerfield Craft Shows since the time they started” 26 years ago, she added. “We used to do the outdoor shows, but we’re too old now to set up a tent.”
The Spring Sampler featured specialty foods, live music and family craft activities. In addition, there were unique artisan crafts, such as pottery, metal and glassworks for the garden, and jewelry and fashion items perfect for Easter, weddings and graduations. Bath and body-care products were also available.
Visitors can sign up near the information booth inside the show for a chance to win door prizes donated by the artisans, $50 shopping certificates and free passes to the Nov. 15 and 16 Holiday Craft Fair.
The Old Deerfield Holiday Sampler Craft Fair continues on Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at 875 Memorial Ave. West Springfield. Admission for adults is $6 and free for children 12 and under.
Eastern States Exposition parking is $5. Visitors can turn their parking receipt in at the information booth inside the show for a 2-for-1 coupon to the Old Deerfield Fall Arts & Crafts Festival, Sept. 20 and 21.