Mark your calendar for Saturday, August 16, 2025, when Old Sturbridge Village in Sturbridge, Massachusetts, unveils its first annual Traditions in Trades: Artisan Showcase. From 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM, this immersive event blends early 19th‑century trades demonstrations with the creativity of today’s artisan vendors—celebrating craftsmanship, history, and community under one historic roof.
Discover Crafts of Past & Present
Set within the living history museum of Old Sturbridge Village, this showcase pairs costumed historians performing authentic 1800s New England trades—from blacksmithing and pottery to fiber arts and woodworking—with a curated group of 40+ regional artisans offering handmade, locally sourced goods.
Imagine chatting with a woodturner shaping bowls in a replica mill or watching a tinsmith hammer ironware beside a modern glassblower displaying colorful fused glass. This melding of eras offers a fresh, tangible way to appreciate how tradition shapes modern art and craft.
What You’ll Experience
- Live trade demonstrations: costumed interpreters bring historic craft processes to life.
- Regional artisan market: shop from more than 40 skilled makers producing pottery, jewelry, glasswork, fiber arts, blacksmith goods, and more.
- Educational takeaways: learn about historic trade tools, materials, and methods while engaging with makers infusing tradition into contemporary design.
- Historic village immersion: stroll through the scenic scenes of the 1830s across 200+ acres of reconstructed New England life.
Event Logistics & Tickets
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Date & Time: Saturday, August 16, 2025, from 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM (rain date scheduled for August 17 only in severe weather).
Location: Old Sturbridge Village, 1 Old Sturbridge Village Road (Fiskdale/Sturbridge, MA). - Admission: included with standard daytime entry or Village membership. Advance online pricing is $30 for adults, $28 for seniors (55+), $15 for youth (ages 4–17), and free for children under 3. Members attend free (registration requested). Save $3 per person when you purchase tickets online.
Why You Should Attend
- Connect past and present — Experience a rare opportunity to see traditional trades alongside contemporary artisans, all within an immersive period setting.
- Shop meaningfully — Find one-of-a-kind creations by local makers: ethically sourced, handmade, and rooted in New England tradition.
- Great for families and groups — With hands-on demos, interactive exhibits, and shopping, the showcase delivers engaging content for all ages.
- Celebrate craft culture — Whether you’re an art lover, history buff, or shopper seeking unique gifts, this event bridges historical education with creativity.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Visit
- Arrive early to enjoy full demonstrations and beat potential afternoon crowds.
- Wear comfortable shoes—the Village spans 200 scenic acres with historic buildings and shady paths.
- Plan for lunch: dine in the Village’s historic tavern or pack a picnic to enjoy on the lawns.
- Bring a camera to capture artisans at work, historic setups, and visual details of craftsmanship.
- Talk with the makers—ask about their materials, techniques, and how tradition inspires their designs.
Final Thoughts
The Traditions in Trades: Artisan Showcase on August 16, 2025, offers a singular blend of living history and modern artistry. By immersing visitors in authentic craft demonstrations and offering access to skilled artisans, Old Sturbridge Village opens a doorway to both bygone eras and present-day creative culture. It’s a celebration of heritage, skill, and community—a must-visit on Western Massachusetts’ summer calendar.