By Kathy Chouteau
The grand dame of “Holiday Fests” is swinging open its doors Sunday, Dec.7, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. when the Richmond Art Center’s (RAC) annual celebration marks 63 years with 60 local artisan vendors.
“The Holiday Arts Festival is one of the longest-running arts and crafts fairs in the Bay Area… and we think it’s one of the best,” said the RAC’s Community Engagement Manager Amy Spencer. “It’s your chance to discover unique handmade gifts, meet the artists who make them and shop local in a way you just can’t online. See the work, touch it, and take home something truly special.” Check out the participating artists at the hyperlink provided.
Alongside handmade gifts by local artists, Spencer told the Standard that the RAC’s studios and courtyard will be used for free art-making activities, a Ceramics Studio sale and raffle.
“Drop-in art-making stations include making holiday-themed trinket boxes and mini canvas magnets,” she said.
Delicious food will also be on hand. Spencer added that for shoppers looking for coffee and snacks, the RAC café opens that day at 10 a.m. At lunchtime, local vendor Michoacán Burgers will be serving their signature hamburgers in the courtyard.
“And don’t forget to purchase raffle tickets,” said Spencer. “This year’s prizes include a San Francisco Giants autographed baseball, restaurant certificates, original artworks and crafts, a Canon camera and more.”
The RAC serves as a “gateway” for local artists to display and sell their works without receiving any portion of the proceeds from sales, according to its website. Event sponsors and partners include Collins Management, BLICK Art Materials, FasTrak, mack5, Western Alliance Bank, Jimmy Stuart Construction, Richmond Rotary Club, Clay People and The Artist Tree.
Find the RAC at 2540 Barrett Ave. in Richmond. Learn more about the “63rd Holiday Arts Festival.”
