As the weather cools down and the leaves change, the crafty and creative are gathering again to sell their wares at a community bazaar that’s been steady burgeoning since its inception last year, but has been in the works at least since the COVID pandemic.
The Back to Nature Garden Center, a green oasis tucked along Kissingbower Road, is hosting its second annual Fall Craft & Artisan Market over the weekend.
Nearly 40 vendors are scheduled to set up tents, tables and booths throughout Back to Nature’s sprawling campground, offering everything from handmade artwork, décor and jewelry to apparel and, of course, plenty of food.
“This market is an opportunity for Augusta to come together in the arts, entertainment, food industries and more,” said David Harden, owner of Back to Nature. “This wonderful city has so much to offer and more than anything I want our community to thrive.”
Augusta-based 4P Studios will be one of the many sellers presenting art, alongside craft vendors such as 5 Moons and a Broom, Claire Raven Collections, Grammy’s the Crafty One and Crafts by Tipsy.
The day will also feature scheduled performances throughout the day, including local musician Matt Dahlheimer and performing artist Kristy Payne, who will be reading books to children in a kid-friendly segment called “Storytime with Kristy.”
Crazy Empanadas, JustICE Pops, Foodies, and Mama Mozell Home Cooking will be among the food vendors, offering a wide array of homecooked delectables, desserts and treats, including vegetarian and vegan options.
Back to Nature offers two artisan markets each year, for the spring and fall. Its first spring market was in April of last year.
Harden first announced intentions to launch an alternative farmers and craft market outdoors on social media in 2020, amid pandemic closings.
“I wanted to offer an option for people to come together and showcase all of the wonderful crafts that they make who just didn’t have a place to show it,” he said. “There are so many talented people in Augusta who just need the space to shine.”
Best Things Georgia, a website powered by content company American Towns Media, recently placed the the Craft and Artisan Market on its list of “10 Best Craft Fairs in Georgia,” an accolade Harden attributes to Back to Nature’s “unique vibe” coupled with the equally inimitable locals and their inspired makes.
“I feel by doing this market, it gives a chance to highlight a taste of what the city offers,” he said.
The Fall Craft & Artisan Market will be at the Back to Nature Garden Center, at 1815 Kissingbower Road, Saturday, Oct. 21, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Skyler Q. Andrews is a staff reporter for The Augusta Press. Reach him at skyler@theaugustapress.com.
