There are arts and crafts sales and then there is the Fiesta Arts Fair in San Antonio. This annual event has been packing them in since 1973, boasting works by some of the finest artists in the United States. It has become so popular, in fact, this mainstay on San Antonio's April events calendar has been named one of the Top 10 arts and crafts fairs in the entire country.
Sponsored by the Southwest School of Art & Craft in San Antonio, the festival is seen as the official kick-off for Fiesta San Antonio. This 10-day event features parties, parades and more. The arts festival itself is noted for drawing some of the best artists the country has to offer. Participants are selected based on their work by a juried panel. In 2008, for example, more than 120 artists from 23 states made their way to San Antonio to show off and sell works in glass, painting, textures, metal, jewelry and more.
The Southwest School, which sponsors the event, is considered a leader in arts education in America. It offers studio-based programs for more than 4,000 people on an annual basis, catering to adults, children and teens alike.
The arts festival itself runs on a Saturday and Sunday in April. There is a small admission charge, but proceeds benefit the school. Many of the works of art on display are also up for sale.
If mingling with artists and artisans from all over the United States appeals, San Antonio is the place to be in April. The Alamo City plays host to one of America's most noted arts and crafts fairs during this month, giving visitors lots to see and do.