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The 51st Annual Hansen Museum Arts & Crafts Fair is officially in the books, and what a day it was! Saturday morning started with a nice rain shower, which had plenty of eyes watching the sky. Thankfully, by about 6:30 a.m., the rain had moved on, allowing preparations to continue and the Fair to go ahead as planned. While the temperature itself was not terribly hot, the humidity made sure everyone knew it was August!
The vendors were fantastic. Booth after booth showcased an incredible amount of creativity, skill, and hard work. The crowd was great, although overall foot traffic was down a bit compared with some previous years. After having to cancel the 2025 Fair because of road construction around the Museum, it was difficult to know what to expect this year. That is simply part of putting on an event like this—months of planning and preparation go into one day, and then it is time to see what the day brings. Most importantly, it was wonderful to once again see people gathered around the square supporting crafters, visiting with friends, and enjoying the Fair.
The live music was phenomenal. Formerly Three was once again a crowd favorite, with Spencer Hansen’s smooth vocals carrying across the south side of the square. 80 Proof Alice brought just the right bluegrass sound to the north stage. Both groups were very well received, and their performances added so much to the atmosphere of the day.
The demonstrating artisans were equally impressive. The pottery wheel is always a crowd favorite, with young and old alike getting their hands dirty and trying their hand at the wheel. There is something special about watching a lump of clay begin to take shape right in front of you. The quilt demonstrations were also wonderful and well attended. Throughout the day, visitors had opportunities to watch talented artists and craftspeople at work, making the Fair about more than shopping—it was also a chance to see firsthand the skill and patience that go into creating handmade works of art.
Of course, no Fair is complete without good food, and the food vendors did not disappoint! The Daily Grind coffee trailer got the morning started with wonderful coffee, cinnamon rolls, and breakfast burritos. The Lions Club burgers and brats were grilled to perfection, the KAY Club served up flavorful walking tacos, and St. John’s Catholic Church’s turkey and noodles are something many people look forward to all year long. As the humidity climbed, snow cones and fresh-squeezed lemonade hit the spot. There certainly was no reason for anyone to leave the Fair hungry!
One of the most difficult jobs of the day belonged to the judges tasked with selecting this 2027’s Artists of the Month. Competition was especially strong, with so many outstanding booths and talented crafters represented at the Fair. The quality and variety of work certainly did not make their decisions easy! A separate press release announcing the 2027 Artists of the Month and alternates will be forthcoming.
A special thank-you goes to all Hansen Museum employees, who work behind the scenes to keep the many details of Fair day organized and moving smoothly. Dave Schneider has setup and teardown planned so well that an outsider might think it isn’t even work—but there is no doubt, it is! Tables, tents, equipment, supplies, barricades, and countless other details all have to be in the right place at the right time and then come back down when the day is over. In the office, April Teves helps keep track of registrations, paperwork, communications, and the countless details and last-minute needs that come with an event of this size. Shirley Mendoza and Shannon Kats pitch in whenever and wherever needed, while Theresa Shellito keeps the Museum sparkling clean. Each plays an important role in making Fair day run smoothly.
Recognition also goes to the Hansen Museum Board members, who generously volunteer their time in service to the Museum. Their guidance, support, and commitment throughout the year are an important part of the Museum’s continued success. Their willingness to give their time and talents in service to the Museum and community is sincerely appreciated.
Special gratitude goes to the Dane G. Hansen Foundation, whose generosity makes it possible for the Hansen Museum to offer events such as the Arts & Crafts Fair. The Foundation’s continued support helps bring artists, entertainers, families, and visitors together while providing opportunities and experiences that might not otherwise be possible in a small community. That investment in the Museum and the communities it serves is deeply appreciated.
Perhaps the biggest thank-you of all belongs to the entire Logan community. An event like the Arts & Crafts Fair simply does not happen without a town full of people willing to pitch in. Volunteers, community organizations, local businesses, and townspeople lend a hand wherever needed. From preparations before the Fair to help throughout the day and cleanup afterward, countless people play a part. The Hansen Arts & Crafts Fair is truly a community effort, and once again, Logan showed just what can happen when a community pulls together.
The Hansen Museum is located at 110 W. Main Street in Logan, Kansas. Museum hours are Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 to 4:00 p.m.; Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 to 5:00 p.m.; and Sunday and holidays from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. Admission is always free courtesy of the Dane G. Hansen Foundation. For additional information, please call 785-689-4846 or visit www.hansenmuseum.org.
