Prairie Peddler Festival Draws Thousands to Butler for Handmade Crafts and Savory Foods

Under the canopy of Butler's autumn woods, the 38th annual Prairie Peddler Festival welcomed a sea of visitors eager to explore its unique offerings.

 

Co-founder Suzi Skoglund observed the bustling scene, noting, "We had a lot of people last weekend." While exact attendance figures are pending, she added, "It felt like a record crowd." The festival, held at 3170 Ohio 97, continues its tradition of celebrating craftsmanship and community spirit.

 

Typically attracting between 25,000 and 30,000 attendees over two weekends, this year's event featured 30 food vendors serving mouthwatering comfort foods and 220 craft vendors. Skoglund highlighted, "I’d say 90% of the crafts we have, they’re handmade by the vendor." The festival has expanded over the years, adding new sections to accommodate more artisans and visitors.

 

Visitors perused a diverse array of goods, from farmhouse-style décor and jewelry to houseplants. Nostalgic wares like wooden spoons, clay mugs, and old-fashioned wood toys evoked a sense of timelessness. Children delighted in the petting zoo, getting up close with miniature pigs, sheep, goats, and even a turtle.

 

Reflecting on the festival's origins, Skoglund shared that she and her husband initially launched the event at a Boy Scout camp in Delaware. Recognizing the need for expansion, they purchased property in Butler to accommodate growing crowds. Now in its 38th year, the festival remains a family affair, with their daughter, Mandie Sanford, serving as coordinator and their grandchildren assisting.

 

Skoglund noted, "One of the things we hear a lot is families that come say, ‘We came when we were kids with our mom and dad, and now we’re bringing our families.’" She added, "This is a family thing, and that’s what we want it to be."

 

The Prairie Peddler Festival continues to be a cherished tradition, blending artisanal craftsmanship, delectable foods, and a warm, family-friendly atmosphere in the heart of Butler.