MANCHESTER - Two long-running craft shows drawing visitors to Manchester during the summer and fall have relocated to the newly-finished event field at Hunter Park. The shows, produced by Craftproducers Inc. attract over 150 artisans and specialty food producers. The 2012 shows are set for Aug. 3 - 5 and Sept. 28 - 30.

The shows are a staple of the regional summer events calendar. 2012 marks the 34th anniversary of the summer show and 24th for the fall.

As Tim Ciancola, president of Craftproducers said "we are very happy and appreciate the opportunity to stay in the area. Manchester has been a great draw for us over the years. Riley Rink at Hunter Park is a full event facility offering our artists and vendors an ideal site."

The move to Hunter Park was made possible by the acquisition of more than 35 acres by Hunter Park at Riley Rink. Since early this year, Noel Dydo of Dydo and Company of Dorset has been readying the field for special events.

The move by the non-profit Northshire Civic Center, the parent organization of Riley Rink at Hunter Park reflects the goal of making the site a year-round venue. Future plans for the fields including hosting concerts, performances and sporting tournaments including soccer and lacrosse competitions. As Chris Ams, president said "we are poised to launch an expanded program to offer residents and visitors additional opportunities to enjoy our area while generating revenue to support ongoing and new programs at Riley Rink

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at Hunter Park."

The Craftproducers' Southern Vermont Art and Craft Festival and Fall Arts and Craft Festival will be held under Camelot-style tents. Parking is available on-site.

For more information telephone 362-0150 or email info@rileyrink.com.