The Showcase Magazine - Articles

Renegade Craft

Metropolitan Pavilion

125 W. 18th St.















By Lauren Holstein


Renegade Craft in New York City is a haven for those seeking unique, handmade treasures just in time for Mother’s Day. Established in 2003, this event has been celebrating craftsmanship and supporting independent creators for 20 years. With four annual events in New York City, including two in Brooklyn (summer and winter) and two in Manhattan (spring and winter), the Renegade Craft Fair has become a staple for those looking to explore a wonderland of artwork, clothing, jewelry, and home decor. Renegade Craft hosts events in Seattle, Chicago, Los Angeles, and San Francisco as well.

For Mother's Day weekend shopping, the Renegade Craft Fair in New York City is scheduled for Saturday, May 11, and Sunday, May 12, from 11 am to 5 pm. Whether you're on the hunt for a heartfelt gift or simply want to treat yourself to something special, this fair promises a memorable and inspirational time filled with the finest in modern craft design.

The fair is the largest independent showcase of modern craft design, showcasing a carefully selected group of over 200 talented vendors. From jewelers and authors to artists and crafters, the fair presents a diverse array of handmade goods. Whether you're drawn to whimsical jewelry, handcrafted leather goods, artisanal soaps and candles, ceramics, "wearable sculpture," cozy sweaters, doggie bow ties, or stylish plant hangers, the fair is a treasure trove of creativity.

Attendees are guaranteed to discover one-of-a-kind gifts for friends and family, making it an ideal destination for those who appreciate the value of unique, artisanal creations.

The fair is also more than just a shopping experience. It's an opportunity to immerse yourself in a world of creativity and craftsmanship. Live entertainment adds to the festive atmosphere, providing a delightful backdrop as you peruse the offerings. For those feeling inspired, there's even a chance to try your hand at some do-it-yourself crafting, adding a personal touch to your finds.

There is even good news for those who cannot attend the fair in person. Renegade Craft offers an e-commerce section of their website so anyone remote can still shop for a curated collection of the best goods from Renegade artists.

Something to note when planning out your day trip is that while the event takes place in a spacious, open-concept hall, navigating between artist booths during the winter fair proved to be a bit challenging due to the substantial number of attendees. It is a free event for attendees, so there didn't seem to be someone monitoring the headcount at the door. The high volume of

people made it difficult to move around the room seamlessly. To enhance your experience, consider attending during off-peak hours to minimize crowds and make exploration more comfortable.

Also, if you're particular about planning ahead for holiday shopping, mark your calendar for the Renegade Holiday Craft Fair, which returns to the city on November 12 and 13!