A Midsummer Night's Dream
By FFN Staff
Over 700 fairs, festivals, art and craft shows have been added in the last three days. Many artists are searching for the best events to attend as the summer season comes full bore. Exhibiting at shows and festivals during the heart of summer season is when craft fairs attract the best artwork in the nation. Most show-goers, especially the kids, will enjoy the sunshine and welcoming conditions. Craft shows originated as summer time outdoor mega-events in rural towns as an outlet for craftpersons to display their art. In the early 1970s, show organizers began holding events indoors which catapulted the crafts industry into a whole new stratosphere. Of course, nothing beats the great outdoors during the summer months when vendors can setup outside and enjoy the festive scene with a chill beer (or diet-coke). See how membership can help you search for the best events to attend!

No Economic Pinch Here!
By Harold Knox
Today's economic conditions have spurred a change in both artists and craft show revelers. A rekindled outlook on the "sustainable" and locally fresh grown products is coming to the forefront. Such a phenomenon may include the desire for more organically produced foods; they are blockbusters at this year's festivals. Local art and constructed craft goods are also a hit. From hand made clothing to jewelry, craft show goers are now more inclined to purchase green and sustainable art.

How to Become a Food Vendor
Posasibly one of the most profitable niches in this industry can be a food artist. We'll show you the ins and outs of serving up delicious food at your favorite events.

Event Checklist
Be prepared before you head out to your show. Use this checklist for a stress-free show day allowing you to devote more time to your artwork.

Juried vs. Non-Juried
The difference between juried and non-juried shows and what it can mean for your show's bottom line.

Craft Shows and Taxes
The benefits of your own crafting business include getting those well deserved tax breaks. We'll show you how to account for your taxes as both a small business owner and keeping your hard earned money from the grasps of Uncle Sam.

Pricing Your Art
Putting a price tag on your crafts can be intimidating. We'll show you how to valuate the heart and sweat you put into creating your art.

Etsy Success
Part 1 in the Series: Your own e-commerce website or Etsy? In this article we list the pros and cons of crafters who build (or who hire to build there own website) versus selling through an online marketplace like Etsy.

How you can get your kids involved early in age during events such as home craft shows.

Go to our our Fairs and Festivals Forum! Talk with Other vendors, event planners, discuss ideas related to the business of event vending at fairs, festivals, craft shows, farmers markets and more!