Checklist for SUNDAY's GO WEST! Craft Fest

Sunday is almost here and we can't wait! Everyone is so excited for what will be an excellent day of local, handmade shopping. For this holiday event we've really tried to have a little something handmade for everyone on your list.

Don't forget to bring your:

Tokens - The Rotunda is a short walk from the L, the 40th St trolley hub and on the 21 and 42 bus line. If you are going by car there's metered parking on Walnut St, and a pay Parking Garage across. Free parking can be a little tricky in that neighborhood, but not impossible!

Cash - While many of our vendors accept credit cards, not all do. Did you know when you pay by credit card to a small business they're losing valuable dollars per transaction to a huge credit card company...? We're happy to take your cards, but we like cash much, much better!

Your Holiday Shopping List - We bet you won't go away empty handed!

A Babywearing Device - Last year people were glad they did!

Friends -  chances are you'll run into someone you know, but it's nice to bring some friends along and make a day of it!

Your Sweet Tooth - With sweets from Weckerleys Ice Cream and Black Orchid Foods serving up veggie snacks, lunch and handmade organic extracts you won't go away hungry.

Just like last year we'll have select vendors outside and upstairs in the balcony. More shopping for you and the chance to see the space in a different light.

Can't wait to see you all there! Stop by Emily from VIX Emporium and Wilder from As the Crow Flies & Co's tables, right as you walk in to say Hi.

Introducing our Holiday Vendors

Introducing our vendors for this years Holiday GO WEST! Craft Fest. Last year we had an overwhelming response in applications for our holiday show. It was incredibly hard to turn away the amount of talented folks that we had to last year due to lack of space. We had to reject more applicants than we accepted! This year for the holiday show we decided to invite previous Go West vendors, but once again due to lack of space couldn't invite everyone. We realize this might have created some confusion that we apologize for! It never ceases to amaze us the amount of talent Philly has to offer.

We're so excited to begin this holiday season. Our full list of vendors is here we have a pintrest board so you can see a sample of what the holiday fest will provide. If your itching to start some holiday shopping early Emily is hosting Gifts in the Galleries at the Penn Museum on Nov 15th & 16th. Check out VIX Emporium's website for all the details.

Thank you for making GO WEST! Craft Fest such a terrifically successful event, we can't wait to see you on Sunday, December 15th at The Rotunda!

Have you liked us on facebook yet? Do it!

Save the Date for the Holiday Edition - Sunday, December 15th!

We are in the process of finalizing vendors for our GO WEST! Craft Fest -Holiday Edition-. Don't forget to save the date this year on SUNDAY, December 15 from 11-5pm at The Rotunda for all of your handmade holiday shopping needs.

Once again if you're on Facebook and haven't "liked" our page do it now for news and updates!

Thank You, and get ready for the next GO WEST! Craft Fest

Thank you all for coming out on Saturday! We couldn't have asked for a better day, what a success. Over 2000 folks came to the Woodlands to see the entertainment, shop for wonderful handmade crafts and enjoy the delicious food that was there. Photos of September, 2013 GO WEST! has some terrific vendor and performer shots.

On the heels of our Fall GO WEST! we have the confirmed date for the GO WEST! Craft Fest Holiday Edition. It will be Sunday, December 15th once again at The Rotunda. Mark your calendar!

Finally if you're on Facebook and haven't "liked" our page do it now for news and updates!

Checklist for GO WEST! Craft Fest

Fall has returned although it's hard to know it with the beautiful summery weather  that has been happening. Tomorrow is no different, the forecast looks gorgeous for spending a day at the Craft Fest. Here are some things to remember that might help make the most of your day at GO WEST! Craft Fest at The Woodlands.

• SEPTA tokens. The Fest is right across from the 40th Street trolley portal, served by the 12, 13, 34 and 36 trolleys. Hop on any westbound "Green Line" subway/surface car from Center City (EXCEPT the 10) and arrive in minutes. While there is limited parking along the road through the Woodlands we recommend getting there by alternate means. If you do drive please don’t park in front of the Festival, parking is allowed farther along the path.
• Comfortable shoes. While the Fest is conveniently close to the entrance, visitors may choose to explore farther into the 54-acre grounds. Featuring the Hamilton Mansion, a grand example of 18th century neoclassical architecture.William Hamilton, an avid botanist, collected and planted dozens of various trees on the estate, many of which are now some of our nation's oldest and largest specimens, thriving among the monuments for over 30 thousand eternal Philadelphians. Stroll the winding paths and see for yourself. There will be tours of the landscape, check in with The Woodlands table at the front entrance.
• Your Gift List. Our talented vendors make a huge variety of products, like jewelry, clothing, accessories, fine art, cards, toys, candles, teas and more. Keep in mind your loved ones' birthdays, weddings, and of course it's never too early to start Holiday Shopping. Your unique GO WEST! gift will be fondly remembered because it was made with love and care by a local artisan.
• Cash. Although some of our vendors do accept credit cards, not all do and there is a good chance that the irresistible treasure you discovered may not be seen again (even at VIX).  Also did you know when you pay by credit card to a small business they’re losing valuable dollars per transaction to a huge credit card company? We’re happy to take  your cards, but we like cash much better. The closest ATM is at Mill Creek Tavern, 4200 Chester Avenue.
• A Blanket for a Picnic Lunch . The Woodlands is a perfect place for a picnic, Black Orchid will have vegan sandwiches and mac & cheese for the kids, Taco Angeleno will be debuting all manner of Mexican style tacos, Axsum will feature middle eastern goodies & The Satellite Café will be there for all of your coffee needs.
• Your Sweet Tooth, with gourmet popsicles from the Lil Pop Shop and Weckerleys Ice Cream it will be hard not to resist something, not to mention vegan treats from The Satellite Cafe!
•  A child, who will have tons of fun singing and playing music with  Ann from the Green Tambourine. They'll be mesmerized by fancy juggling tricks and hula hoopers and get their face painted by the West Philly Coop School and do free arts and crafts courtesy of the UC Arts League & Neighborhood Bike Works.
• A camera, to capture memories of a lovely autumn day, the falling leaves, historic monuments, and the dazzling tricks jugglers & hoopers will perform at 3pm!
• Your senses of curiosity, creativity and wonder, and enough time to experience the day. 

Performance Schedule for Go West Craft Fest, 9/7/13

We are SO looking forward to this Saturday's Go West Craft Fest at the Woodlands! The weather forecast couldn't look nicer, and we've got an amazing group of crafters, food vendors and activities for kids. There are also a bunch of local performers throughout the day, starting with:

11:00 am, The Green Tambourine.

Located at 4614 Baltimore Avenue, The Green Tambourine offers musical instruction and exploration classes for children and adults. Festival-goers of all ages can take part in interactive musical numbers, hear "recitals" by some current students, and enjoy solo performances by director Ann Schwartz.

1:00 pm, Loren Gildar

"The music of West Philly’s Loren Gildar is natural, earthy and goes straight to the heart. His sweetly mellow voice and straightforward lyrics walk into your soul like an old friend walks into your living room. This insightful songwriter's bluesy, melodic chord progressions stir feelings of nostalgia, hope, friendship and love."

2:00 pm, Chenda Cope (pictured) and Liana Moskowitz

Chenda and Liana will play traditional, old-timey, Cajun-flavored bluegrass with magical vocal harmonies.

During the 3 o'clock hour, we will feature "feats of physicality" by three different performers: hoop dancers Nicolle Barrett and Caitlin Donaghy (the video shows Caitlin's performance at the Spring craft fest) and juggler Brien Eckenrode, another Go West veteran.

4:00 pm,  Silverton

Finally, two members of the Philly folk-rock band Silverton will share some of their original tunes, accompanying themselves on guitar and cello.

There are even a few surprises in store, so join us for a lovely day at the wonderful Woodlands this Saturday, won't you?

Vendor List for Fall GO WEST! Craft Fest

We are excited to share this Fall's vendor list with you! More than 70 local artisans and craftspeople will share their creations, like jewelry, accessories, cozy hand knits, ceramics, home goods, stationery, bags, prints, apparel, children's gifts and more. There will also be food from some of West Philly's finest eateries, like Aksum, Taco Angeleno, Black Orchid and the Satellite Cafe, plus frozen delectables by Lil' Pop Shop and Weckerly's Ice Cream. Find the complete list with web links here and on the right side of this page.

Our next post will be about the entertainment lineup, like local musical acts (some just for kids!) and physical performers like hoop dancers and jugglers... stay tuned!

Vendor Applications are OPEN for the Fall Fest!

We are now accepting vendor applications for our Fall Fest! It will be held on September 7, 2013 (rain date September 8) from 11-5 at The Woodlands, 40th and Woodland in West Philadelphia. If you would like to show your work, please apply!

The application and more information can be found here or on the right side of this page. Applications will be accepted through July 21, then we will review all the applicants and decide among them. We will let everyone know by July 28.

 Good luck and we hope to see you at the Fest!

Save the Date for the Fall GO WEST!

Summer is barely upon us but we wanted to let you know to save the date: 

Saturday, SEPTEMBER 7th for the Fall GO WEST! Craft Fest

 back in the lovely Woodlands Cemetery.

We'll be opening up applications mid June for vendors so check back for that. Have a happy summer, can't wait to see you on Sept 7th!

Thank you!!

Wow, Saturday was amazing! The weather turned beautiful and we had the biggest crowd yet. Thank you so much to all of our talented vendors, the wonderful performers, our super-helpful helpers, the folks at The Woodlands and the West Philly Coop School for face painting and fun crafts.

Of course a huge thanks to everyone who came out, shopped and made the Fest a wonderful success. We'll keep the vendor list up until the next Fest (which will be in September) so you can see what everyone's up to and shop online. We also have lots of pictures from Saturday on the sidebar (courtesy of David Scott) and more on the VIX Emporium flickr page.

To keep yourself in the know about GO WEST! please "like" our page on Facebook and share with your friends! Can't wait to see you in the Fall!

Checklist for GO WEST! Craft Fest

The trees are in bloom, and the weather is shaping up to be slightly overcast but free from rain this Saturday! (This Saturday morning it's still true! Hope to see everyone!) A perfect day all considered for a Craft Fest. Here are some things to remember that might help make the most of your day at GO WEST! Craft Fest at The Woodlands.

• SEPTA tokens. The Fest is right across from the 40th Street trolley portal, served by the 12, 13, 34 and 36 trolleys. Hop on any westbound "Green Line" subway/surface car from Center City (EXCEPT the 10) and arrive in minutes. While there is limited parking along the road through the Woodlands we recommend getting there by alternate means. If you do drive please don’t park in front of the Festival, parking is allowed farther along the path.
• Comfortable shoes. While the Fest is conveniently close to the entrance, visitors may choose to explore farther into the 54-acre grounds and even tour the Hamilton Mansion, a grand example of 18th century neoclassical architecture. William Hamilton, an avid botanist, collected and planted dozens of various trees on the estate, many of which are now some of our nation's oldest and largest specimens, thriving among the monuments for over 30 thousand eternal Philadelphians. Stroll the winding paths and see for yourself.
• Your Gift List. Our talented vendors make a huge variety of products, like jewelry, clothing, accessories, fine art, cards, toys, candles, teas and more, even honey produced right there on the grounds of the Woodlands. Keep in mind your loved ones' birthdays, weddings, graduations and other gift-giving occasions like Mother's Day and Father's Day. Your unique GO WEST! gift will be fondly remembered because it was made with love and care by a local artisan.
• Cash. Although some of our vendors do accept credit cards, not all do and there is a good chance that the irresistible treasure you discovered may not be seen again (even at VIX).  Also did you know when you pay by credit card to a small business they’re losing valuable dollars per transaction to a huge credit card company? We’re happy to take  your cards, but we like cash much better. The closest ATM is at Mill Creek Tavern, 4200 Chester Avenue.
• A Blanket for a Picnic Lunch . The Woodlands is a perfect place for a picnic, Black Orchid will have veggie & vegan cheesesteaks & hotdogs, Taco Angeleno will be debuting all manner of Mexican style tacos & The Satellite Café will be there for all of your coffee needs.
• Your Sweet Tooth, with gourmet popsicles from the Lil Pop Shop and Weckerleys Ice Cream it will be hard not to resist something, not to mention vegan treats from The Satellite Cafe!
•  A child, who will have tons of fun singing and playing music with  Ann from the Green Tambourine at  noon & Jay Sand of All Around This World at 2pm. They'll be mesmerized by fancy juggling tricks and trapeze artists and  get their face painted and do nature inspired (it is earth day after all) arts & crafts courtesy of  the West Philly Coop School & the UC Arts League.
• A camera, to capture memories of a perfect spring day, the flowering trees, historic monuments, and the dazzling aerial feats that tinycircus will perform at 3pm! Not to mention the pair of red tailed hawks that are frequently spotted  and are nesting somewhere in the Woodlands.
• Your senses of curiosity, creativity and wonder, and enough time to experience the day.

 There's plenty to do in the neighborhood tomorrow, don't forget about the Clark Park Farmers Market for some local produce and while you're there check out the Uhuru Health Fair & Flea Market for health screenings & flea market finds. Then come on down to the most talked about handmade Craft Fest West Philly has to offer, hope to see you there!

Entertainment line-up for Saturday's Go West Craft Fest

We are eagerly awaiting this Saturday's GO WEST! Craft Fest and hoping for clear weather. (If it rains, we will move the show to Sunday the 21st. We'll make the call early Saturday morning, so check back here for updates.)

In the meantime, here's a preview of the wonderful local acts that will entertain us throughout the day. All performances are free and open to the public.

12 noon: The Green Tambourine

The Green Tambourine music studio, recently opened at 4614 Baltimore Avenue, offers playful, interactive musical exploration classes for small children and group instruction for older children and adults. Instructors will offer some kid-friendly tunes, and some of their students show off their newly polished musical talents. Little ones can also join in the fun with "musical open play".

1 pm: Cassendre Xavier

Describing herself as a "renaissance negresse & ARTrepreneur", Cassendre Xavier is the award-winning founder of the Black Women's Arts Festival. As a musician, Ms. Xavier is a prolific singer-songwriter-guitarist with a pop blend of folk, jazz, blues and rock. Her 3 studio albums showcase her rich, sweet singing voice, deft guitar strumming, and finger-picking. Her 3 live recordings include entertaining audiences with her bubbly humor and charm.
Ms. Xavier is also a multi-genre writer, actress, and fine artist who periodically creates chapbooks, ebooks, candles, guided meditation/affirmation song audio recordings, and stationery. CXTV, her official YouTube channel, showcases her music, raw vegan food prep, guided meditations, affirmation
songs, poetry, rants, parody songs, and all sorts of malarkey, shenanigans, and tomfoolery.

2 pm: Jay Sand

Jay Sand, a GO WEST! veteran, is the founder of All Around This World, a wonderful international music program for children aged 0-8. In Jay's classes, children explore the rhythms, songs, stories and dances of many different cultures, one region per 11-week session. Jay does exhaustive research in each region's traditional songs and customs, then interprets them into fun and engaging musical activities, dances and games, often involving a multitude of percussion instruments and props like scarves and costumes. Join Jay at 2 for some sing-along, clap-along, drum-along fun!

3 pm: Tinycircus

This is the third time that Tinycircus, a production of Tangle Movement Arts, has performed at GO WEST! Craft Fest. See dazzling midair performances on trapezes & aerial silks at 3 pm.

4 pm: Commonwealth Keg Rollers

Joined by members of local bluegrass favorites Sour Mash, the Commonwealth Keg Rollers will belt out some good ol' twang at 4.

Spring Vendor List is Here!

Our spring 2013 vendor list is here and it's pretty amazing if we do say so. Check out our pinterest board for a look at everyone side by side! We'll be back here soon with some of the entertainment we have planned, as well as the mouthwatering local food and kids activities.

Spring Vendors Coming Soon...

The applications are in and final decisions have been made. As the applications closed we'd received the biggest amount of applicants to date, and had some very tough decisions to make. It was a very talented bunch and we're glad to see that handmade is alive and well. Thank you so much to everyone who applied! We'll put the vendor list up in the next few days and we'll have a  pinterest board so you can get a little sampling before the Fest. 

April 20th is going to be a pretty slamming day in West Philly! The GO WEST! Craft Fest will be in The Woodlands, with supremely talented handmade vendors, local music, kids music and activities, delicious local food and desserts and *drumroll* tinycircus.  A few blocks away in Clark Park the Uhuru Flea Market will be having their annual Health Fest & Flea Market, with engaging speakers and lots of flea market finds. We hadn't planned on this scheduling dilemma, but by the time we both realized, our dates were already locked in. We think it just means an even more amazing day in our neighborhood, and we bet you can do both and get your shopping done at the Farmers Market !

Check back in the next few days for the full spring vendor list! 

Last Chance to Apply For April's Show!

We are busily gearing up for this Spring's GO WEST! Craft Fest, returning April 20 to The Woodlands at 40th & Woodland in West Philly. This month, we've received applications from so many talented makers of all sorts of wonderful creations.

But, with the end of February comes the closing of applications and the tough decision process of which ones will be part of the Spring Fest. Thursday, February 28 is the LAST day to apply for this event. Until then, interested vendors who create their own products may fill out the vendor application in order to be considered. We will let all applicants know of their acceptance status by March 10. Good luck!

Vendor Applications are OPEN For GWCF Spring 2013!

After a hectic holiday and joyful January, we are happy to announce that vendor applications are now being accepted for the Spring GO WEST! Craft Fest. The Fest (our biggest yet!) returns to The Woodlands on April 20, 2013 from 11-5, with unique local crafts, live music, acrobatic performers and childrens' activities. If you are interested in showing your creative work, click here for the vendor application. There is no fee to apply. The application deadline is February 28 and we will let applicants know of their acceptance status shortly thereafter. Good luck and we hope to see you at the Fest!

P.S. If you can't wait till April for an amazing craft show, please check out the debut of 30th Street Craft Market, Saturday, February 9 from 11-5 inside 30th Street Station. Just in time for Valentine's Day, 30 local artisan vendors will show their handmade wares, like jewelry, clothing, pottery, glass, woodwork, hand knits, art prints, cards, children's items and more. Many GO WEST favorites will be participating, including our co-organizers As The Crow Flies & Co. See some more vendor profiles here. Produced by VIX Emporium and the University City District, 30th Street Craft Market is the newest venue for Philadelphia craft, and we couldn't be more excited about it. We hope you can stop by!