By BOB SHRALUKA
WZBD.com
The Decatur Artisan Craft Market kicks off its 11th season this Saturday with a new purpose but the same vow to offer all manner of merchandise – and eatable “goodies” – provided by vendors from three states.
The market will operate from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Decatur’s Riverside Center, 231 E. Monroe St. No admission is charged.
This will be the first of six markets this season, all held on the second Saturday of each month except January.
Organizer and Market Manager Mary Montgomery said Saturday’s market vendors will have a wide variety of custom and one-of a kind products.
“Products will range from all natural soaps and body care, jewelry, clothing, blankets, candles, embroidery, baby items, to organic treats for your fur-babies,” she said.
“If you are looking for something specific, just ask our artists, they can create or know someone who can create that item.”
OVER A HUNDRED: Typically, the Decatur market will host anywhere between 60 to 90 different vendors with 105 tables of handmade goods.
“Many are local artists, but we have vendors from all over Indiana, Ohio and Michigan,” Montgomery explained.
There have been over 500 different vendors that have participated in the market over the 11 years, she said.
Several non-profits utilize the market for their fundraisers.
“Attendance was great last year,” Montgomery said. “Decatur has been really supportive of small businesses and it continues to grow each year.
“It doesn’t hurt that these artists are really talented and provide useful, beautiful – and let’s not forget delicious – products.
“The great thing about artists is they like to try something new. It is never the same market from month to month.”
RAISED $23,000: To date, the monthly market has raised over $23,000 to go toward a splash pad fund. The beneficiary is changing for 2026-27
“Like most artists, the Decatur Artisan Craft Market is always attempting to evolve and create a better community,” Montgomery said. “This year, the market would like to pivot our fundraising to different not-for-profits in our community each month. We feel it is important to honor those organizations in the community whose primary ‘love language’ is acts of service.
“Those involved in the not-for profit field not only donate their time, but more importantly, their energy and enthusiasm to the betterment of the community,” Montgomery continued.
Each month, the featured not-for-profit will be located in the Riverside Center lobby to talk about the programs, projects and volunteer opportunities they offer to the community.
“It is a great way to educate the public and to engage others whose love language is acts of service and to help them fund their projects,” Montgomery closed.
Saturday’s fundraiser beneficiary will be the North Adams Arts Council.
About the Author
