NATCHITOCHES, LOUISIANA … The Melrose Arts & Crafts Festival will celebrate its 34th annual event on June12 and 13, 2010 at historic Melrose Plantation.
The Festival will feature more than 100 craftsmen from at least eight states. The Festival, sponsored by the Association for the Preservation of Historic Natchitoches, will include many artists such as Rusty Patterson and Candice Alexander, who are returning to the Festival this year.
A new edition to the festival will be Copeland’s Ice Cream from Theodore, Alabama. Copeland’s Ice Cream was started in 2002 by Robert Copeland and his father who decided to market their famous homemade ice cream. The first year they attended six festivals and are now attending more than 20 in six states. The ice cream is powered by motors and a batch can be churned in 15 minutes. Serving a variety of flavors, Robert and his wife Renea are also known for their delicious floats. They may be reached at (251) 656-7700 or (251) 605-6114.
Returning to the festival this year will be painter Cory Carlson and his wife Laura who specializes in jewelry making. Cory’s paintings are well known for his use of color, light and the life like quality of his work and Laura’s jewelry pieces are handmade original designs. Cory will also be doing caricatures this year.
Other items to be displayed and sold include wooden sculptures, ironwork, handcrafted jewelry, unique yard art and handmade candles.
And of course there will be famous Natchitoches meat pies and other regional foods. There is a $5 admission fee for adults, $2 for children age’s six to 12, and under age six is free. Tours of the main house and the African House will be $5 for the two days.
Melrose Plantation is located 18 miles south of Natchitoches on Hwy. 119. For more information about the festival, contact Susan Davidson at (318) 379-0800.
For information about Natchitoches, accommodations, or more upcoming events, visit www.natchitoches.net or call 800-259-1714.
