Lisa Ezra, Nederland. Very much in the spirit of the season, the fifth annual Local Yokel Holiday Art Fair took place at the Knotted Root Brewing Company on Thursday, December 12, 2019, playing host to all types of local crafters and artisans. Photography, jewelry, stained glass, hand-knit hats, crystals, and all types of decorative arts and holiday gifts were up for grabs, while patrons enjoyed a pint and the smooth grooves of some talented local musicians.
Dreamt up and executed by local lovelies and long-term friends Carrie Bladyka and Heather Taylor-Lande, the overarching vision was always one of inclusion. Discouraged by an inability to participate in Nederland’s traditional Holiday Market due to booth fees perceived as excessive, the girls decided to have their own craft fair that would be free for all vendors. New local institution the Knotted Root Brewing Company further aided this vision by allowing participants to use the space for absolutely no charge, which benefited from the additional influx of festive patrons of the arts. Truly a win/win situation for both the crafters and the establishment.
The experience was further enhanced by the musical arts, with tunes provided by Otis Lande, Benjamin Sproul and Scott Llewellyn. The craft brewing arts was available with a vast array of impressive, locally brewed beers unique unto The Knotted Root. It was an evening of great beer and great cheer, and exceptionally special handmade gifts. Nederland originality at its finest, yet again.
(Originally published in the December 19, 2019, print edition of The Mountain-Ear.)
