Casper, WY – The City of Casper Recreation Division, in partnership with the Community Recreation Foundation, is opening the Ford Wyoming Center this Friday and Saturday for the annual “Wyoming’s Largest Craft Fair.” The two‑day event, scheduled for Nov. 13 from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. and Nov. 14 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., will showcase more than 200 vendors from across Wyoming and neighboring states.
Local tradition and community impact
“Our craft fair started 20 or so years ago,” said Mariah Hellmuth, Recreation Supervisor for the City of Casper’s Recreation Division. “It began at the recreation center, grew beyond capacity, and moved to the Event Center about 10‑15 years ago.” Over its two‑decade history, the fair has become a staple for families and friends, offering a wide array of handmade goods, art, specialty foods, holiday décor, and unique gifts.
Hellmuth highlighted the fair’s role as a community fundraiser: “This is the Community Recreation Foundation’s largest fundraiser. The proceeds help provide scholarships for recreational activities for young people and senior citizens, ensuring everyone has a chance to play.” Admission is $5 for anyone 12 years and older; children under 12 enter free.
What visitors can expect
Shoppers will find homemade breads, baked goods, jams, knitted and crocheted items, quilts, wood arts, jewelry, pottery, paintings, photography, candles, soaps, wreaths, holiday ornaments, leather goods, clothing, toys, personalized gifts, floral arrangements, and many other handcrafted items. Both local Casper vendors and out‑of‑state artisans will be present, giving attendees a broad selection of regional craftsmanship.
In addition to the market, the Community Recreation Foundation is running a raffle composed entirely of vendor‑donated items. All raffle proceeds also go to the foundation, further supporting scholarships for swim lessons, sports programs, and other recreational classes that might otherwise be out of reach for families.
Community response and attendance
Last year’s fair attracted roughly 4,400 visitors, according to a city release, and organizers hope to match or exceed that number this year. “Just come support the Community Recreation Foundation, support local vendors, and find a unique Christmas gift,” Hellmuth urged. The event offers a family‑friendly environment where residents can shop, socialize, and contribute to a cause that strengthens local recreation opportunities.
For more information, visit the City of Casper’s recreation website or the event page linked below.
Casper Recreation Center – Event Details
Original reporting: Oil City News (Casper WY) — read the source article.
