Ozark Tradition

The coming of fall to the Ozarks brings several traditions that are enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.  Obviously the changing colors of the leaves brings visitors to the area to take scenic drives trough the Ozark National Forest.  Then there are the craft fairs. The third week-end in October is craft fair week-end in this area.  There are over 25 fairs within 25 miles of this computer.  The events draw thousands and thousands of visitors.  I have long since ceased to actually shop a craft fair, but I don't think I will ever tire of people watching.  I can just park myself on a bench and let the fair come to me. Ready for a quick tour of a local event?  Here we go.

 This fair is located about 2 miles from our house.  It begins on Wednesday and runs through Sunday.  Saturday will find quite a crowd gathered for the festivities.  That little train ride in the foreground is made of plastic barrels.  The engine is a lawn tractor that has been adorned with the same barrel treatment. 

One can find all sorts of "season" appropriate decorations.

One can also find decorations of questionable taste, but unquestioned humor.

One can often find the craftsman busy creating his next item for sale.

One may also find questionable crafts of questionable origin.  Editorial note;  If you can buy it at a Halmark store, it's not a craft, it's a product.  You're not a crafter, you're a merchant.  Just sayin'.

No fair is complete without "fair food".  Decisions, decisions...what's for lunch?

Seriously, who can resist Rub N Butts BBQ?  Not me.  The pulled pork sandwich was a very good choice.  As it turned out, a friend of mine is a partner in this rig.  They have turned a hobby into a part-time business.  Hey!  Cooking is a craft, right?  Well, BBQ is a craft for sure.

I know, I know, I said that I went people watching.  So where are the people, you ask. That's a whole other post, but here's a sneak preview.

Stop back by later for more Crafty Folks.