Valdese Annual Craft Shows

Get Ready for the Christmas in November Craft & Gift Show! – November 7 & 8, 2025

Kick off your holiday shopping in style at Valdese’s Christmas in November Craft & Gift Show—a festive two-day extravaganza you won’t want to miss! Held at the historic Old Rock School, this indoor event features over 80 talented handmade crafters offering an incredible variety of unique gifts, from hand-carved wood creations and artisanal soaps to beautiful holiday décor and so much more.

Presented by Valdese Community Affairs, this beloved event has grown into a must-attend celebration of craftsmanship and community spirit. With double the days, double the vendors, and double the fun, you’ll have twice the chances to find that perfect gift—and take home amazing door prizes!

Mark your calendars:

• Friday, November 7 from 4 PM to 8 PM
• Saturday, November 8 from 9 AM to 2 PM

Explore the expanded event space, including the stunning RSAF Art Galleries upstairs, where even more crafters will showcase their finest work. Don’t forget to grab your passport at the door—visit 35 vendor booths, get your passport stamped, and enter to win fabulous prizes in our raffle!

Hungry? No worries! Faith Community Church will be serving up delicious homemade baked goods and snacks on Saturday, and Waldensian Style Wines will be pouring samples of their famous Peach Bellini both days—plus bottles for sale to take home the flavor of Valdese.

While you’re here, take a detour to the fascinating Piedmont & Western Railroad Museum housed inside the Old Rock School. Explore the incredible HO-scale model railroad, winding over 1,000 feet of track through a breathtaking miniature Blue Ridge Mountain landscape—fun and fascinating for all ages!

Admission is just $2 per person or free with a canned food donation, and every shopper will receive a special Christmas in November commemorative tote (while supplies last). The event is fully handicap accessible and perfect for holiday shoppers, families, and craft lovers alike.

Applications for vendors open in July 2025—don’t miss your chance to be part of this festive tradition!

Location: Old Rock School - 400 Main Street West Valdese, NC 28690

Spring Into Creativity at the April Craft Market – April 25th, 2026

Celebrate the arrival of spring at the much-anticipated April Craft Market, happening on April 25th, 2026, at the beautiful Temple Field—just behind the historic Old Rock School in downtown Valdese. This lively outdoor market, proudly sponsored by the Valdese Community Affairs Department, brings together over 80 talented handmade vendors from across North Carolina, all showcasing an incredible variety of crafts that capture the spirit of the season.

Now in its seventh consecutive year at Temple Field, this vibrant event has blossomed into a beloved spring tradition. From stunning woodwork and unique pottery to handcrafted jewelry, goat cheese, handmade candles, all-natural bath and body products, home décor, yard art, toys, and so much more, the market offers an extraordinary range of treasures for every taste and style.

As you explore the colorful booths, enjoy lively tunes performed by local musicians and treat yourself to a delicious menu of refreshments —perfect fuel for a day of browsing, shopping, and soaking up the fresh Western North Carolina spring air.

“Our craft markets are truly a crowd favorite,” says Morrissa Angi, Director of Community Affairs and Tourism for Valdese. “With Mother’s Day just around the corner, the timing couldn’t be better for finding one-of-a-kind gifts crafted with love and care. Each year, we’re amazed by the talent and creativity of our vendors. We work hard to bring a diverse mix of handmade goods so that everyone—no matter your age or interest—can find something special to take home.”

Beyond the market, visitors and vendors are encouraged to experience all that downtown Valdese has to offer during this festive spring day. Grab lunch at one of the 12 locally owned restaurants, explore charming boutiques, or relax in one of our scenic parks dotted with inspiring public art installations. Plus, kids will love the free bouncy houses—making this a perfect family-friendly outing!

Vendor applications open January 2026—don’t miss your chance to be part of this flourishing celebration of creativity and community!

Event Details:
April 25th, 2026 | 9 AM – 3 PM
Temple Field, 400 Main Street West, Valdese, NC 28690 (Behind the Old Rock School)