Aiken's Makin to Celebrate 36th Anniversary

A 2-day arts and crafts event in beautiful downtown Aiken, South Carolina, featuring hand-made craft exhibits, food, and entertainment

Friday, September 9, 2011 9am - 6pm
Saturday, September 10, 2011 9am - 5pm
HISTORIC DOWNTOWN AIKEN,
SOUTH CAROLINA

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Welcome to the 35th Aiken's Makin'

Artisans and crafters are busy building their inventories; food vendors are stocking up; and the Aiken's Makin' committees are checking off their punch lists. The 35th Annual Aiken's Makin' is here! The parkways and streets of downtown Aiken will come alive with enthusiastic shoppers, the aroma of delicious food, and the pleasant sounds of music as nearly 30,000 visitors flock to downtown Aiken.

John McMichael, Co-Chair

Shelia Taylor, Co-Chair

“We're ready,” said Aiken's Makin' Co-chair Shelia Taylor, First Citizens Bank. “And we have 179 exhibitors and 27 food vendors who are ready, too. The level of enthusiasm and energy of our many volunteers and the Chamber professional staff is infectious.”

Co-chair John McMichael, Hutson Etherredge Companies, agreed and said he is ready for the big Chamber event. “It's been fun preparing for this with all of our dedicated volunteers, and I'm anxious to see it all come together,” McMichael said.

Casual and serious shoppers will find many unique pieces of art and handmade crafts available this year. Selections range from pottery, glass art, and wood creations to children's clothing and accessories. There will be jewelry, baked goods, homemade candy, sweetgrass baskets, and yard art, as well as many other unique handcrafted items from around the Southeast.

“I suggest you come downtown on Friday and Saturday as the selections may change each day, especially with the artisans who make one-of-a-kind pieces. I guarantee there will be something for people of all ages,” said Taylor.

The record number of applicants this year speaks well of the event's regional popularity and helps to ensure a quality mix of arts, crafts, and food, according to McMichael. “The rigorous examination process of every application provides for a showcase of unique and diverse products,” he said.