“Christmas Has Come” by Alyssa Overton is one of the many works of art hanging at the Southside Art League Off Broadway Gallery for its Super Christmas Sale. The event, which offers a variety of locally made artwork ideal for gift-giving, runs through Dec. 30.
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You’re running out of days to wrap up your Christmas gifts.
Dec. 25 is coming up quickly, and for those who still have family, friends and loved ones to cross of their lists, it’s crunch time.
But like Santa’s holiday helpers, local artisans and crafters have the solution. Events planned throughout the county will showcase the best of art, jewelry, home decor, clothing and more to help you find something for even the most hard to shop for on your list.
So instead of shopping online or getting a generic gift from a big-box store, pick out something handmade and one-of-a-kind at these upcoming events to be a true Christmas star.
One of the county’s longest-lasting local gifting events is the Southside Art League’s Super Christmas Sale. The talented artists of the Greenwood-based organization spend the year making breathtaking paintings, drawings, photographs and other works of art right here in Johnson County, and they’ve put the best of it on sale during the organization’s annual holiday sale.
“It’s a Christmas tradition for the art league, where we set aside our small gallery for members to exhibit original art that can be good for gifts,” said Corrine Hull, gallery coordinator for the Southside Art League. “It gives members a chance to show their art, even if they don’t normally hang in our other gallery. Any member can bring a piece in.”
Shoppers can find a wide variety of styles, subjects, media and prices, including matted giclee prints, original framed and unframed art, ceramic sculpture, paper sculpture, greeting cards, jewelry and more. Many pieces are small and perfect for gift giving.
“There’s no one focus; it’s up the individual artist,” Hull said.
In addition, gift certificates can be issued in any amount for anything at the Southside Art League, such as purchasing artwork, taking classes or paying dues. A layaway plan is also available.
The sale is ongoing throughout the month. People can shop from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesdays through Saturdays at the Southside Art League Off Broadway Gallery, 299 E. Broadway St., Greenwood. The sale lasts until Dec. 30.
Here’s where else local residents can find the perfect gift:
Antique & Vintage Market
Details: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dec. 9, Johnson County fairgrounds, 250 Fairground St., Franklin
Once again, on the second Saturday of the month, the Johnson County fairgrounds are transformed into a shopper’s paradise. Vendors from Indiana, Ohio, Kentucky and beyond will feature a variety of items, including primitives, jewelry, antiques, quilts & linens, glassware, artwork, turquoise, vintage items, collectibles, furniture and more. The event will be held indoors at Scott Hall and Herring Hall, with antiques and vintage featured in one building while vintage and artisan items are featured in the other. Breakfast and lunch is available, and admission is $3. Parking is free.
Candlelight Shopping
Details: 6 to 9 p.m. Dec. 9, 400 block of East Jefferson Street, Franklin
Four downtown Franklin stores — Farm Girl Mercantile, FrenChic, Upstairs Basement, and Salvage Sisters — will get you in the holiday shopping mood when they stay open late. The sidewalks will be lit with candles and lights guiding people from one store to the other, while participating stores will feature appetizers, specials and giveaways. At FrenChic, European refreshments will be served while guests get a chance to view their imported Weihnachtspyramides, or German Christmas pyramids.
Hoosier Handmade Craft Fair & Winter Market
Details: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dec. 16, Johnson County fairgrounds
Once again, the county fairgrounds plays host to a festive shopping experience when the Hoosier Handmade Craft Fair & Winter Market. Hosted by Acker Farms, the event features festive music and décor as people stroll meander through vendor booths both outdoors and inside Scott and Herring Halls. More than 65 local artisans are taking part, offering leatherworks, pottery, jewelry of all kinds, personalized charcuterie and cutting boards, handpoured soy candles, goat milk products and more. From 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., visit with Santa Claus. Kids 10 and younger can enjoy the free scavenger hunt game throughout the event. Admission and parking are free.
Artisan Mini Market
Details: 6 to 9 p.m. Dec. 21, MashCraft Greenwood, 1140 N. SR 135
If you’re really cutting it close with your holiday shopping, you’ll want to stop into MashCraft Brewing in Greenwood. The brewery will be serving up tidings of good cheer during this special mini-market, featuring holiday music, work from local artisans and, of course, beer. People can pick up last-minute gifts and stocking stuffers while enjoying the best of the season.
