PITTSFIELD, Mass. — Roots Rising's Handmade Holiday Festival, a curated holiday market and Berkshire winter tradition, is back.

 

On Nov. 25 and 26 this holiday festival will celebrate its twelfth year and fill the first floor of The Stationery Factory with over 50 local artisans, makers, and food producers.

 

Shoppers can enjoy delicious prepared food and live music to keep them feeling festive and fueled. And a special children's craft-making zone by Berkshire Art Center runs throughout the weekend where every budding artisan can leave with a homemade gift.

 

"We believe in supporting the Berkshires' local economy. Buying local is a social and economic investment in the people and places where we live. And it makes for a vibrant and thriving community," say Jessica Vecchia, Executive Director of Roots Rising.

 

Shoppers can beat the crowds and get a first look at all the goodies during the special $30 ticketed VIP shopping hour on Saturday November 25 from 10am-11am, which includes mimosas, muffins, music, coffee and a reusable tote gift bag to take home.

 

Shoppers can bid on one-of-a-kind gifts and getaways at the event raffle and online auction. Every spin at the raffle wheel wins a prize - from handmade ornaments to gift baskets from local businesses. And from November 20 - November 27 supporters can bid on local getaways like a spa day for two at Canyon Ranch, a week of sleepaway camp at Camp Kimama, and other items valued over $10,000 at the online auction.

 

All proceeds from the door, event raffle, and online auction support Roots Rising's mission to empower youth and build community through food and farming. The Handmade Holiday Festival runs Saturday, November 25 10am-5pm and Sunday, November 26 10am-3pm.

 

The event is free with a suggested $5 donation. The event is held in The Stationery Factory, 63 Flansburg Ave in Dalton. Free and fully accessible parking is available. All event details: RootsRising.org/hhf

 

 Presenting sponsor: Smith, Watson & Company, and Greylock Federal Credit Union, Blue Q, Classical Tents & Party Goods, Taproot Magazine, Budhaus, Mill Town Foundation, Berkshire Business Properties, Haddad Auto Group, Magnetworks, and Paul Rich and Sons for sponsoring this event.