Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAbout06-11-26 Public Comment - C. Lapotka - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE_ Missoula Summer MADE fair celebrates creative economyFrom:Carol Lynn Lapotka Subject:[EXTERNAL]FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Missoula Summer MADE fair celebrates creative economy Date:Thursday, June 11, 2026 3:11:48 PM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Carol Lynn Lapotka Phone: 406-201-9229 Email: info@handmademontana.com Website: handmademontana.com Summer MADE Fair Returns June 21 for a Weekend of Creativity, Community, and Celebration in Missoula MISSOULA, Mont. — June 2026 — The Summer MADE Fair returns to downtown Missoula on Sunday, June 21, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., bringing together more than 190 artists, makers, food vendors, and community organizations for one of Montana’s largest celebrations of handmade goods and local creativity. The Summer MADE Fair, held each year on the third weekend in June, will once again span both Caras Park and the Riverside Lot, just an easy walk under the Beartracks Bridge. Guests can access the event from either Caras Park or South Pattee Street, making it simple to explore both areas of the fair. This expanded footprint, introduced last year, was enthusiastically embraced by artists and shoppers alike. The additional space allows for more vendors, easier navigation, and a more relaxed shopping experience. Organizers are excited to bring back the two-location format as part of the fair’s continued growth. Hosted by handMADE Montana, the Summer MADE Fair showcases a carefully curated collection of artists and small businesses from across Montana and the Northern Rockies. Visitors will discover handcrafted jewelry, ceramics, artwork, clothing, home décor, specialty foods, bath and body products, and much more—all created by independent makers. “This event is a celebration of creativity, entrepreneurship, and community,” said Carol Lynn Lapotka, founder of HandMADE Montana and organizer of the MADE Fair. “We're excited to continue expanding the fair and welcoming shoppers to both Caras Park and the Riverside Lot. With so much happening throughout Missoula that weekend, it's the perfect time to get out, explore downtown, and support local artists.” This year’s Summer MADE Fair is the perfect Sunday endcap to one of Missoula’s most vibrant weekends. After a fun-filled weekend of Missoula Pride 2026 and the Zootown Festival, visitors can slow down, stroll through the fair, support local and regional artists, and enjoy a relaxed day of art, culture, community, and connection. Attendees can look forward to: More than 190 handmade artists and makers Two shopping zones: Caras Park and the Riverside Lot Local food vendors and refreshments Community nonprofit organizations Family-friendly fun A chance to shop directly from artists and makers Free admission for all ages The Summer MADE Fair has become a favorite annual tradition for both locals and visitors, drawing thousands of shoppers eager to discover unique handmade goods while supporting independent artists and small businesses. Whether you're visiting for Pride festivities, attending the Zootown Festival, or simply looking for a memorable summer outing, the Summer MADE Fair offers an opportunity to experience the creativity and community spirit that make Missoula so special. The event is free and open to the public. For more information, including a list of participating artists and event details, visit handmademontana.com. Event Details Summer MADE Fair Sunday, June 21, 2026 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Caras Park & Riverside Lot Missoula, Montana Admission: Free For additional information, media inquiries, or interview requests, contact Carol Lynn Lapotka at 406-201-9229 or info@handmademontana.com. -- handMADE Montana Team Carol Lynn Lapotka // handMADE Montana // REcreate designs Courtney Blazon // Courtney Blazon Illustrations Visit us on Facebook, check out our website, and see some behind the scenes action on Instagram FACEBOOK MADE fair MT // HandMADE MT // HandMADE MT Community Group WEBSITE & INSTAGRAM