Yankee Peddler festival returns to Clay's Resort for three weekends

LAWRENCE TWP. – Yankee Peddler returns to Clay's Resort Jellystone Park for the 51st installment of the craft festival from 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

The fun continues on Sept. 14 & 15 and Sept. 21 & 22.

The annual event draws thousands to the Canal Fulton area.

Frank Cajka, vice president of the Yankee Peddler Association, said guests can expect the same great crafters that come year after year as well as some new vendors.

"The structure is the same but we got some new people, new entertainers and artists and crafters," he said. "It keeps evolving. Fresh faces as well."

Here's five things to know if you go:

1. Yankee Peddler = hand-crafted goods

The festival features more than 200 master artists and crafters who take a step back in time to pioneer America from 1776 to 1825.

There's glass, jewelry, leather, knitting, candles, soaps, pottery, photography, quilling and animal calls. Each vendor dresses in period clothing and many provide educational displays outlining how they create their work.

Some offer a hands-on experience for visitors, including a new the McCune family exhibit that will demonstrate glass-blowing.

2. Turkey legs, apple fritters and more

Come hungry. Whether you are looking for something hearty or sweet, there are plenty of food options.

Menu items include turkey legs, pies, Reubens, perogies, apple fritters, corn on the cob and a variety of sandwiches. Wine and beer tastings are also offered.

3. Yankee Peddler entertainment

Various entertainers will perform daily, including puppeteers, bagpipers, a medicine show and a magician.

Featured artists include Madewell Music the first weekend, The Plate Scrappers on Sept. 17 and 18 and the Celtic Sisters on the last weekend. There will also be a petting zoo, pony rides and face painting,

4. There's history

Learn more about early America with the Mountain Men encampment, Civil War encampment and a flag raising. A pre-colonial Native American camp will be on display Sept. 24 and 25.

5. How to get Yankee Peddler tickets

Tickets at the gate are $11 for ages 12 to 59; $10 for seniors 60 and older; $3 for children 6 to 11 and free for children 5 and younger.

Discounted tickets are available online at https://www.yankeepeddlerfestival.com/tickets. Parking is free and handicap parking is available.

This article originally appeared on The Independent: Yankee Peddler festival returns to Clay's Resort for three weekends