Friends would like to take the opportunity to invite the community to join them November 2 and 3 for this year’s festival. In appreciation for the massive volunteer effort assisting Chehaw in storm recovery, and the patience of its visitors as they move forward, a reduced price of $5 per person will grant access to the festival, Park, and Zoo. The Festival is Saturday, November 2 from 9a-5p and Sunday, November 3 from 10a-4p inside the Zoo.
 
A year ago, the Friends of Chehaw held the first Annual Muckalee Arts & Crafts Festival. The good news was the festival even took place. The bad news was that ten days earlier, Chehaw and the community as a whole had been devastated by Hurricane Michael. An amazing amount of effort was expended in a short period of time in order for this event to take place as scheduled.
 
This year, more than 30 artists will be offering a wide array of arts and crafts for sale. The offerings range from watercolors to acrylics, wood carvings, jewelry, folk art, homemade soap, fishing lures, honey products and much more.          
 
A variety of artisans will be demonstrating their artistry throughout the festival as well. These artists will not only demonstrate their skills but will have a unique selection of their art for sale.
At his vintage forge, Blacksmith, Trent Tye will be demonstrating his skills that carried him to the first season of ‘Forged in Fire”.
 
Forrest Buford with Hot Glass Academy will be demonstrating the art of glassblowing and helping individuals blow their own creations. Attendees will be able to sign up on site for the unique opportunity to blow their own creations.
 
Potter, Kirby Gregory will be throwing on his wheel.  Gregory is known for unique shapes and glaze combinations. Tony Snapp will be demonstrating wire sculpture and wood carving techniques. He is also looking forward to teaching children how to create their own wire sculptures. Richard Furlong will not only be selling gorgeous stained glass pieces, but assembling them on site. The SOWEGA Beekeepers will be demonstrating bee handling techniques and have programing focusing on the importance of pollinators. Ron Smith will demonstrate the art of fly lure tying. While, Niik Mays will demonstrate traditional soap making and Kathy James will teach Kumihimo braiding.
 
A selection of live bands will be performing throughout the day. Jackson Pine will get things kicked off Saturday at 10:00 am with a diverse play list. They will be followed by Royal Johnson. Sunday Morning at 10:00, Risen will be playing followed by The Evergreen Family Band.
 
If music isn’t enough to put adults in a festive mood, a Beer garden adjacent to the Bandstand might help. It should also will serve as a complement to the food being offered by a variety of food trucks and vendors.
 
On Sunday, the Artesian Car Club will be sponsoring a drive in with a focus on rolling art from 1:00 until closing. Colonel Bob James will have his self-driving Tesla Model S on display and allow guests to check it out and learn how it works differently from other cars.