The Fairest of Them All

Whether they’re called fairs, festivals, art shows, or samplers, these events have one important thing in common: They’re a great way to get your holiday shopping done early. So beat the rush at the malls this season and purchase something made with care. These acclaimed annual events have something for everyone — from candles, holiday decor, and collectible Santas to stoneware, jewelry, and wooden crafts. Don’t miss these opportunities to purchase handmade fine arts and crafts by members of distinguished artists’associations from around New England. Nov. 4-5: 18th United Maine Craftsmen Bangor Arts & Crafts Show, Bangor, ME. 207-621-2818. unitedmainecraftsmen.com Nov. 4-Dec. 31: Brookfield Craft Center’s 31st Annual Holiday Exhibition & Sale, Brookfield, CT. 203-775-4526. brookfieldcraftcenter.org Nov. 16-19: 54th Annual Vermont Handcrafters Holiday Craft and Fine Art Show, South Burlington, VT. 800-373-5429. vermonthandcrafters.com Nov. 17-19: 19th Annual Old Deerfield Christmas Sampler, West Springfield, MA. 413-774-7476. deerfield-craft.org Nov. 18-19: 5th Annual Holly Berry Arts & Crafts Show, Manchester, NH. 603-528-4014. joycescraftshows.com Nov. 24-25: 16th Annual Ocean State Artisans Holiday Craft Festival, Warwick, RI. 401-647-7848. oceanstateartisans.comFor more events around the region, see the “Traveler’s Calendar” and visit YANKEE’s travel Web site, NewEngland.com.