Lake Leelanau Street Fair
An Autumn Celebration of Artisans and Community
Fall colors and artisan booths draw the community together at the lively Lake Leelanau Street Fair.
On October 12th, Jessica and I had the pleasure of attending the Lake Leelanau Street Fair, a vibrant annual event held against the scenic backdrop of Northern Michigan’s autumn foliage. The fair, bustling with local artisans, musicians, performers, and community members, captured the essence of the creative spirit that Great Lakes Mosaic seeks to celebrate. Here’s a glimpse into our experience and some of the talented vendors and performers we had the chance to meet.
Clark Lewis captivates the crowd with fire-juggling at the Lake Leelanau Street Fair. Photography by Andy Dill, editing by KC Springberg-Dill.
The Lake Leelanau Street Fair brought together a unique blend of handcrafted artistry and joyful community energy. One of the day’s highlights was the captivating performance by Clark Lewis, who dazzled the crowd with his skills and humor. From juggling fire and chain saws, riding a unicycle to swallowing swords and balancing atop impossible stacks of items, Clark’s act was both thrilling and awe-inspiring, leaving spectators on the edge of their seats. His dynamic presence added an exciting flair to the fair, creating unforgettable moments for attendees of all ages.
Connecting with Local Vendors
Leandra and her husband proudly showcase her unique button jewelry collection at Notion's booth, adding a personal touch to the Lake Leelanau Street Fair.
Notion by Leandra’s work was a highlight for us, especially as she will be featured on the cover of our upcoming issue of Great Lakes Mosaic magazine releasing digitally on November 1st! Leandra has a compelling story—be sure to come back and read the issue online from any device. Her booth was adorned with delicate pieces that combined texture and color, each button carrying a story of its own. We were so excited to see her work on display, knowing her journey and passion will soon inspire readers of Great Lakes Mosaic magazine.
Oak & Holly Design showcases a stunning collection of handcrafted wood and ceramic pieces, bringing rustic charm to the Lake Leelanau Street Fair.
Oak & Holly Design featured an impressive collection of handcrafted wood items and ceramics, adding a rustic, earthy touch to the fair. The artistry in each piece was evident, from bowls, dishes and vases, to unique ceramic creations that drew attention for their color and unique simplicity. The natural wood and ceramic tones beautifully complemented the fall leaves, enhancing the fair’s cozy, seasonal ambiance.
Claire's Creations brings holiday cheer to the Lake Leelanau Street Fair with her charming handmade cards and illustrations.
Claire’s Creations charmed us with her whimsical stationery, stickers and gifts. Claire’s booth was full of illustrations that were both vibrant and heartwarming, perfect for spreading holiday cheer or bringing a touch of joy to any space. It was clear that Claire puts her heart into every piece, and it was a pleasure to see her unique style celebrated among the fair’s artisans.
Still Point Market from Empire, MI, offers a sweet selection of local maple syrup and honey at the Lake Leelanau Street Fair.
Still Point Market’s booth showcased an array of local honey and maple syrups, bringing the taste of Northern Michigan to fairgoers. Dana’s offerings captured the essence of Michigan’s natural sweetness, inviting visitors to experience the flavors of the region. Her neatly arranged display was a reminder of the simple joys that local products bring to our tables.
Indulge in soothing self-care with The Wynter Rose’s handcrafted body scrubs, a perfect treat for relaxation at the Lake Leelanau Street Fair.
Jewel from The Wynter Rose’s booth had an inviting collection of body care and wellness products. From “Sore No More” soaks snd scrubs to “Winter Bliss” bath bombs and body oils, these products were crafted with a focus on relaxation and self-care. The calming scents and thoughtful ingredients in each item made The Wynter Rose a standout for those seeking a bit of indulgence during the colder months.
Dancingmoon Gourds brings vibrant, hand-painted gourd art to life at the Lake Leelanau Street Fair, adding a whimsical touch to the festivities.
Another favorite was Dancingmoon Gourds. The booth was a feast for the eyes, with vibrant, hand-painted gourds crafted into decorative and functional pieces. The seasonal gourds, some transformed into charming jack-o-lanterns, added a delightful autumnal touch to the fair. The artisan behind Dancingmoon Gourds, Diane Brandt, has a keen eye for color and form, making each piece a work of art that celebrates nature’s bounty.
The heart of the Lake Leelanau Street Fair—a cozy stage setup where musicians and performers entertain the crowd, adding rhythm to the vibrant artisan gathering.
The day was filled with laughter, discovery, and a shared appreciation for the talents that Northern Michigan has to offer. We left the Lake Leelanau Street Fair inspired and grateful to witness such a wonderful display of craftsmanship and community. This event, like so many in Northern Michigan, reminds us why we started Great Lakes Mosaic: to spotlight the people who pour their heart and soul into their work, enriching our communities with their passion and creativity.
We’re looking forward to sharing more about these artisans in our upcoming issues and can’t wait to return next year! Visit http://www.lakeleelanaustreetfair.org to stay updated on dates for 2025.