Streets surrounding Jastro Park were lined up with vehicles, and children ran rampant around the playground and watched in wonder with their parents at the guardians of the various booths set up for the Village Artisans Spring Craft Fair.
Local stores and hobbyists took the time off April 19 and 20 to show off their talent for crafts.
Spinning Wheel Ceramics displayed necklaces and earrings as well as decorated plates.
Cindy Wilkens’ Creative Nightlights and Things store was also there with all things wood including tea-light lanterns, candle holders and wall decorations.
“That is so cool,” said an onlooker of Mike and Juanita’s homemade birdhouses, which were also wood, natural and unpainted.
One booth even had pieces of wood furniture such as secretary desks. Though the pieces were small, customers could carry them home and relish in their purchases.
The same booth even offered outside solar lights placed in handmade wood foundations with little frogs or ladybugs on them.
There were also bear statues at another booth, and it was set apart from Bears ‘R’ Us, which is usually set up on Rosedale Highway.
Arts of Aquarius displayed new and nostalgic art on wood frames, which proved that the craft fair had something for everyone.
Besides wood crafts, there were also many booths that sold jewelry, hair accessories, quilts and clothes.
Not only were there the traditional tie-die shirts and dresses, there were also handmade designs on button-down shirts and modern tanks (cotton with skull designs), as well as breathable lacey tanks to welcome the spring.
Purses and hats made of yarn were also available for purchase.
Outside decorations were also prevalent at the fair to welcome the spring.
Upon entering, costumers could see sculpted bushes of birds and even a dolphin.
Across the way, people could purchase painted rocks to welcome guests at their house or wind chimes.
According to Village Artisans’ Web site, they screened over 40 artisans and craftspeople “to ensure a top-quality fair.”
Not only did they think about the crafts, they even offered food and beverage booths such as barbecue, shaved ice and specialty coffees. La Rosa’s Popsicle vendor was set up and ready for the children near the playground.
Village Artisans is a non-profit organization and has sponsored craft fairs in Bakersfield for over 30 years, according to the Web site.
Jastro Park was chosen to hold the fair because of its “beautiful” and central location, which corners Truxtun Avenue and Elm Street.