Big Crafty returns to Asheville this weekend, over 180 vendors

The Big Crafty, Asheville’s semiannual handmade crafts market, is underway at Harrah’s Cherokee Center today and will continue tomorrow, offering a concentrated market for locally made goods as the holiday season intensifies. Organizers say more than 180 vendors are present, including over 100 regular participants and more than 30 new sellers, representing a wide range of arts, crafts, food and drink producers. Preview Day on Saturday requires a ten dollar ticket while Community Day on Sunday is free to attend.

The event provides a critical sales window for local artisans and small food businesses as consumer spending shifts to seasonal and gift purchases. For vendors who rely on direct sales, the two day format combines a ticketed early access day that can boost per visitor spending with an open access community day that broadens foot traffic. On site food vendors and Harrah’s concessions are operating inside the venue, which helps keep visitors on site longer and supports food businesses that depend on event traffic.

For Buncombe County residents the market functions both as a shopping resource and an economic activity. Buyers can find handmade clothing, pottery, jewelry, prints and specialty foods, with a substantive cohort of new sellers adding fresh variety this year. The presence of longstanding regular vendors provides continuity for repeat shoppers and helps sustain maker incomes between larger retail seasons.

Event organizers maintain a full vendor lineup and logistical details online. Visit thebigcrafty.com for the complete vendor list, hours, and ticketing information. Those planning to attend should check the site for any last minute updates on hours and accessibility.

As the local economy moves through year end, events like The Big Crafty play a measurable role in sustaining micro enterprises and circulating income locally. For many small producers, revenue from these markets contributes to inventory, studio expenses, and the ability to hire temporary help during peak times. The Big Crafty’s mix of a paid preview and a free community day aims to balance direct vendor revenue with inclusive access for Buncombe County residents looking for locally made gifts this holiday season.