Nestled within the heart of the NC Mountain State Fair, the Heritage Crafters Area—also known as the Heritage Circle—celebrates the rich traditions and time-honored skills of Appalachian and mountain crafts. This special corner of the fair is home to a close-knit community of artisans dedicated to preserving the artistry, stories, and techniques passed down through generations. From blacksmithing to basket weaving, wood carving to quilting, each crafter brings a piece of the mountains’ cultural heritage to life.
While crafters are permitted to sell their handmade goods, the true spirit of the Heritage Circle lies in sharing. Our primary goal is to educate, inspire, and connect with fairgoers by demonstrating the creative processes behind these historic crafts. Visitors are encouraged to watch, ask questions, and engage with the makers as they work—offering a unique, hands-on window into the skills that have shaped life in the Southern Appalachians for centuries.
The Heritage Crafters Area is more than an exhibit—it’s a living tradition. Our community of artisans supports one another like family, working side by side in camaraderie and care. Each year, we look forward to welcoming a few new faces into the circle—people who are not only skilled in their craft, but passionate about sharing it with others. If you’re interested in joining a group that values heritage, creativity, and connection, we’d love to meet you.