In previous newsletters we’ve described two good reasons for attending KettleFest: the live music, and kids’ activities. This time we offer up a third reason: our awesome vendors!
The artisan vendors invited to participate at KettleFest are an incredible group and will be bringing along many unique items to peak your interest. As just one example, the metal sculptures made by Jeff Mann (RK by Jeff Mann) – scrap metal parts welded together to create intricate animals and insects -- are unlike anything you’ve ever seen before!
Several of our favorite artisan vendors from previous KettleFests are returning again this year: Bee Paper House (an amazing graphic artist, Brittany designs all of our maple syrup and honey labels); Bubbaloo Farm (handmade clothing items); Suds by Sasha (handmade bath and body products); Trim Soy Candles (soy wax candles in repurposed wine bottles); Karen For Your Skin (products from 100% essential oils); Lorraine’s Concrete Leaves (popular birdbaths using real leaves and concrete); The Misstique Collection (handcrafted jewelry); Mounds of Mud (pottery made right here in Fishers NY); Lisa’s Creations (wind chimes and other creations made from recycled glass); Northeast Iron and Tin (tinwares from Victor); and MCL Designs (handcrafted jewelry).
Among our new vendors this year are Belove Handmade (extraordinary macramé); Emerson & Oliver (jewelry and more); and Rainmaker Designs (ceramic wall hangings by two exceptional local artists).
The Art Barn at KettleFest will again feature the amazing artwork of Laurie Dirkx Photography; Mike Kraus Art; and Paul and Christine Knoblauch. Jim Coburn from Mount Morris will also be in the Art Barn. Jim is an award-winning wood sculptor of birds, and will be demonstrating his technique at a 12:30pm workshop.
Speaking of workshops, Chef Jeffory McClean is returning this year to provide not just one, but three cooking demonstrations in the Kettle Ridge Farm tasting room. That’s a great thing, since his classes have proven extremely popular. Another popular workshop is the trail walk led by DEC forester Brice June. Brice is an expert on trees, mushrooms, and many other outdoor topics.
Then There's The Food & Drink
Chef’s Catering is offering a full menu from their food truck, Le Petit Poutine will be in attendance with their Rochester-favorite poutine, Dave's Sidewalk Catering & Cafe (voted 2017's #1 Rochester street meat) will be cooking up burgers and sausage, and we'll be serving pancakes with real maple syrup, sausage, and pancake sundaes from the Kettle Ridge Farm food truck. The talented ladies of Starla Bake & Brew are coming back with their delicious baked goods and coffee drinks. You can even bring home a doggie bag to your pet filled with treats from BONES The Dog Bakery.
For the 21+ crowd, The VB Brewery in Victor will be offering its own craft brews along with a selection of local wines and ciders, and the Honeoye Falls Distillery is providing free samples of its distilled products.