An array of vendors will be setting up their booths this evening in preparation for the Christmas in October craft fair on Oct. 9. After cancelling the craft fair last year due to COVID-19, it will return this year with the profits benefiting the Riley Children’s Hospital. The event has a $5 entrance fee, or $3 fee for those 62 and older, and children 12 and under are free. 

     This year, there will be over 160 vendors at the craft fair. Volunteers like senior Erin Hanna, who is a member of the Fishers Riley Dance Marathon executive board, will be around the event directing people and collecting donations for the hospital. 

     “We have many new people signed up ready to release their homemade items,” Hanna said. “I love talking with the other vendors and hearing their stories behind their crafts. The overall feeling at the fair is so high-energy.”

     Senior Ethan Bravo attended the craft fair in 2019 and remembered seeing many different items available like artwork, candles, crafts, jewelry, blankets and decorations for the holidays. During his visit, he particularly enjoyed the candles and jewelry that were for sale.

     “I enjoyed the craft fair when I went,” Bravo said. “It had a lot of items that caught my eye, and I even bought something from one of the vendors. It also feels like an event for a small town and everyone is there. It gives off a warm atmosphere.”

     Bravo purchased a decorative pumpkin from the craft fair to add to his fall decorations. Though Bravo attended the fair previously, he said he would consider going again to see the new crafts, accessories and art pieces that will be for sale this year. 

     The craft fair also offers a food menu with items like chips, muffins, pizza, candy, nachos and an assortment of drinks. More information can be found on the Fishers Dance Marathon website. 

     Hanna recommends that everyone who can make it to the event attend it because it is a fun school event. 

     “You should go and bring your friends and family,” Hanna said. “There are so many different little crafts for everyone and they make great gifts for the holidays coming up.”