The approaching end of the year brings a festive tradition for my sisters, Mom and me – craft show season! In some ways, craft show shopping kicks off the holiday season for me, although I’m SO not ready for the holidays and winter weather. I finally am understanding my grandmother’s comments about holding tightly to time as you age as it seems to fly by too quickly.

I grew up going to local craft shows and flea markets with my mom, so it’s no surprise that we’ve continued the tradition as my sisters and I aged. Several years ago we expanded our tradition to include meeting my best friend and her mom at the Christmas in Clawson craft show. We wander, greet long-time friends (we always know someone when in Clawson!) and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. I know I can speak for all of us when I say it’s a wonderful outing that we all look forward to!

I sometimes consider myself ‘crafty’ but I’ve got nothing on the amazing talent that you often find at these craft shows. From jewelry to wool gloves to quilts to home decor, there are so many beautiful items to peruse. Over the years, I’ve purchased a gorgeous Christmas tree skirt and warm wool gloves, plus an assortment of great gifts.

Here is a short list of upcoming arts and craft shows in the metro Detroit area. Happy shopping!

Christmas in Clawson – Saturday, Nov. 14, 10am-4pm. Clawson High School, Clawson.

Christmas Fantastyland Craft Show – Saturday, Nov. 14, 10am-5pm; Sunday, Nov. 15 from 11am-4pm. Lakeview High School, St. Clair Shores.

IACS Fall Craft Show – Sunday, Nov. 15, 10am-4pm. Italian American Cultural Center, Clinton Township.

Craft Show – Saturday, Nov. 21, 10am-4pm. Franklin High School, Livonia.

32nd Annual Craft Fair – Saturday, Nov. 21, 10am-4pm. Royal Oak High School, Royal Oak.

Santa’s Craft Castle – Saturday, Nov. 21, 9am-5pm. Eisenhower High School, Shelby Township.

Elf Shelf Craft Show – Saturday, Nov. 28, 9am-4pm. Troy High School, Troy.

St. Nick’s Warehouse – Saturday, Nov. 28, 9am-5pm and Sunday, Nov. 29, 10am-3pm. Henry Ford II High School, Sterling Heights.

Detroit Urban Craft Fair – Friday, Dec. 4, 6-9pm; Saturday, Dec. 5, 10am-8pm and Sunday, Dec. 6, 11am-6pm. Masonic Temple, Detroit.

Potters Market – Saturday, Dec. 4, 9am-8pm and Sunday, Dec. 6, 10am-5pm. Southfield Pavilion, Southfield

Craft Christmas – Saturday, Dec. 5, 10am-4pm. L’Anse Creuse High School, Macomb.

Holiday Cookie Walk & Craft Show – Saturday, Dec. 5, 10am-3pm. Bishop Foley High School.

Holiday Art & Craft Show – Saturday, Dec. 5, 9am-4pm and Sunday, Dec. 6, 11am-4pm. Clarkston High School, Clarkston.

Festival Arts & Craft Show – Saturday, Dec. 12, 9am-4pm. Troy Athens High School, Troy.

*Dates and times are based on information I found so not guaranteed. Unless otherwise noted, all events have a minimal admission fee.