While most East Tennesseans are thinking about strawberries and irises, folks at Rose Center have pumpkins and apple butter on their minds as they prepare for the 37th Annual Mountain Makins Festival.
On the fourth weekend of October, the historic 1892 Rose School building and grounds are filled with the sights and smells of the harvest season. Organizers of the event invite artists and crafters to apply for exhibition space.
June 1 is the deadline for artisans to submit their applications.  Booth space is limited, and a selective crafts jury will review the entries.
“An effort is made to include a wide variety of arts and crafts, from very traditional to modern interpretations of traditional crafts. Each year between 25 percent and 40 percent of our crafters are new,” states Beccy Hamm, Festival Director.
Work should exhibit excellence in technique and concept, and show imagination and the mark of individuality.  All work must be original to and made by the exhibitor.  Application forms are available at RoseCenter.org.  They may also be picked up at Rose Center, 442 W. Second North Street. To receive one by mail, call 423-581-4330.
Mountain Makins Festival, a celebration of Appalachian culture, is the largest event in Hamblen County, drawing 7000 visitors from throughout the region.  It has been designated a “Top 20 Event in the Southeast” three times by the Southeast Tourism Society, and last year it was voted “Best Festival in East Tennessee” by readers of Tennessee Magazine. The 2012 festival will be held October 27 and 28, with a special Preview night on Friday, October 26.  Mark your calendars now for this family-friendly event.

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