The world famous museums also host an annual arts and crafts show over the course of several days in the month of April. According to their website, the Smithsonian Craft Show is "regarded as the country's most prestigious juried exhibition and sale of fine American craft." A historical approach is given to each category of American craft, including jewelry, furniture, glass, mixed media, basketry, wearable art and others. Also at the craft show are museum tours, live music and art performances, faculty lectures and much more.
National Building Museum
401 F Street Northwest
Washington, DC 20001
(202) 633-5006
smithsoniancraftshow.org
Located in Chantilly, Virginia, the Sugarloaf Crafts Festival is a large indoor craft festival taking place every winter. With over 250 artisans participating in the event, you are sure to find a favorite style of craft. From fashion to wall art, jewelry to pottery, there are items to purchase and interactive demonstrations to enjoy. For children, there is live music and plenty of children's entertainment including puppet shows and craft projects. For food lovers, there are handmade and specialty foods available to try and buy.
Dulles Expo & Conference Center
4368 Chantilly Shopping Center
Chantilly, VA 20151
(800) 210-9900
sugarloafcraft.com
For those in the market for fine Christmas gifts and decorations, The Maryland Christmas Show is a premier holiday event. The show takes place over two busy shopping weekends in November. Located in Frederick City, Maryland, it is easily accessible from Interstate 270. The Maryland Christmas Show is kid-friendly, even featuring a chance for children to get their picture taken on Santa's lap. Also available are fine holiday-themed candies and confections for the sweet tooth.
Fredericks Fairgrounds
797 East Patrick Street
Frederick, MD 21701-5999
(301) 898-5466
marylandchristmasshow.com