When asking yourself about something to do near me in Salt Lake City with a group of friends or family, consider
Craft Lake City
Why Craft Lake City is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Craft Lake City is a renowned nonprofit organization based in Salt Lake City, Utah, dedicated to fostering and celebrating the local arts and crafts community. Established in 2009, it has grown into a dynamic platform that educates, promotes, and inspires artisans through a variety of initiatives that blend art, science, and technology. The organization’s flagship event is the annual Craft Lake City DIY Festival, held every second weekend of August at the Gallivan Center. This festival is Utah’s largest local-centric art, music, and technology event, attracting over 500 local artisans, vintage vendors, food entrepreneurs, performers, and STEM exhibitors. Beyond the festival, Craft Lake City engages the community year-round with workshops, exhibitions, curatorial projects, and education programs, including STEM outreach and youth entrepreneur initiatives. It also hosts the LetterWest conference, a premier event for hand lettering enthusiasts featuring workshops and keynote speakers from top artists worldwide. With a strong commitment to community impact, Craft Lake City has served nearly 800,000 individuals and over 1,400 creatives in 2024 alone, making it a vibrant meeting place for friends, artists, and cultural explorers eager to connect with Utah’s innovative and independent creators.
Here's what people think of Craft Lake City
As of recent, Craft Lake City holds a 4.3-star rating based on 38 reviews.
Reviews of Craft Lake City commend the organization for its vibrant celebration of local artistry, community engagement, and educational initiatives. Users appreciate the diverse range of activities and events, especially highlighting the DIY Festival as a unique and enriching experience that combines art, music, and technology in an inviting outdoor setting. Positive feedback often focuses on the quality and originality of the local artisans featured, the inclusive atmosphere, and the organization’s role in promoting independent creators. Attendees also praise the educational workshops and youth programs that empower emerging artists and entrepreneurs. On the other hand, some negative reviews mention logistical challenges during events, such as crowded venues or limited parking, which can impact the visitor experience. A few critiques point to occasional communication gaps about event details or scheduling. Despite these concerns, the overall sentiment remains favorable, with most visitors valuing the creativity, community spirit, and supportive environment that Craft Lake City fosters. The consensus is that Craft Lake City stands out as a significant cultural hub that not only showcases talented artisans but also actively contributes to sustaining and growing Utah’s creative economy and DIY culture.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Penni Bailey
This was Way Over Priced !!!!! (Especially since you have to pay parking as well) I was so very disappointed at the quality of the vendors that they had presenting , definitely not high end at all . The vibe was not a craft fair type vibe , they opened the gates 10-15 minutes late from their start time, leaving everyone standing in the hot sun . Once you get through the gate , they did not separate the line of prepaid people from the people who still needed to pay. There was alcohol served , not well known food trucks, (and very few of them) i felt ripped off , and will definitely not be returning next year.
Linda Bernini
Lots of vendors with wonderful things to buy The lunch from the Burgers on Wheels was delicious. I love to buy the tuxedo bars from For the Sweets. I buy them every year at the festival because they are so delicious.
Manuela Herrera
I’ve attended multiple Craft Lake City events, and unfortunately, I’ve been consistently disappointed. It feels like the organization is more concerned with lining their own pockets than genuinely supporting the community or the incredible artists involved.The events lack heart and authenticity, and it’s hard to ignore how unhappy the employees and volunteers seem. It’s disheartening to see such a talented pool of creators being overshadowed by poor leadership and a hollow facade of community care.As a nonprofit, Craft Lake City enjoys certain benefits, but it’s clear they are not acting in alignment with the responsibilities that come with that status. They should be looked at closely to ensure they’re living up to their mission and truly benefiting the community they claim to serve.The people involved in these events deserve a platform that uplifts them and fosters genuine connection, not one that uses the community as a prop. I sincerely hope to see a change in leadership or at least a shift in priorities toward what really matters: the people and the art.
John Barkiple
As a SLUG photographer, I’ve had behind-the-scenes access to Craft Lake City since day one — almost 15 years! I’ve seen things you people wouldn’t believe. A two-meter crocheted AT-AT swaying in a pickup truck. I watched zip-tie wizards cast holding spells on an inflatable gate. All those moments will be stored online… pixels on screens… for all time. I invite you to bring a camera of your own to the next CLC DIY Festival — let’s go!
Christian Schultz
advertising $15 for tickets to diy fest and then there being $3 extra in tax is very uncool. should’ve advertised the full price
How to reach Craft Lake City
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Why Craft Lake City may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at this place with your friends?
If you're looking for a vibrant and inspiring venue to gather with friends or family, Craft Lake City stands out as an exceptional choice. This dynamic hub is not merely a craft store or a typical event space; it is a bustling celebration of local creativity, innovation, and community spirit. When you rally here, you tap into an atmosphere that intertwines art, music, technology, and culture all in one place. Whether you’re artisans, hobbyists, or simply enthusiastic supporters of the local scene, Craft Lake City offers a shared experience that ignites collective creativity and enjoyment. The energy at their events, especially the flagship annual DIY Festival, is palpable — with hundreds of local artisans and performers generating excitement and conversation. This makes it an ideal setting to connect with friends over shared interests, explore new crafts, and enjoy live performances together. The venue encourages interaction, learning, and discovery, turning any meetup into a memorable day full of both fun and meaningful engagement in the local arts community.
What activities are available at Craft Lake City and why is it perfect for group meetups?
Craft Lake City is famous for its annual DIY Festival, Utah’s largest local-centric art, music, science, and technology festival. This event alone offers an impressive range of activities perfect for groups. Over three days, you and your friends can explore offerings from more than 500 local artisans, vintage vendors, passionate foodies, youth entrepreneurs, and STEM exhibitors. The festival showcases an eclectic mix of crafts, performances, and hands-on science and technology demonstrations. This diversity means every member of your group will find something that captivates them — from vintage collectibles to innovative tech displays, to live music and cultural dance performances. The festival environment encourages mingling and shared experiences, while dedicated performance stages host over 50 local dance, music, and multicultural acts, creating a lively and vibrant backdrop for your gathering. Plus, the presence of youth entrepreneurs and family-friendly zones, such as the SLC Stars Kid Area, makes it inclusive for younger guests or those interested in supporting burgeoning local talent. Overall, Craft Lake City offers a curated ecosystem of activities that fosters interaction, inspiration, and enjoyment, making it a perfect spot for group connection and collective fun.
What makes the Craft Lake City DIY Festival stand out as a group event destination?
The Craft Lake City DIY Festival is truly unique because it seamlessly blends multiple creative disciplines in one accessible venue. Unlike conventional festivals that focus on either art or music alone, this event brings together artisans, science and technology innovators, and performers to create a multidimensional cultural experience. Attendees can wander through a marketplace featuring local handmade goods, from fine jewelry to handcrafted home décor, directly supporting Utah creatives. Simultaneously, science and tech exhibits demonstrate cool STEM innovations, blending education with entertainment. For a group, this means diverse interests are catered to, and conversations can flow naturally as you discover new ideas and skills together. The festival also offers interactive workshops where you can try your hand at crafts such as screen printing or visible mending, converting your outing into a hands-on learning adventure. Furthermore, since this is a local-centric event, it has a community vibe that makes everyone feel welcomed and connected. Group meetups here are enhanced by shared discoveries and the festive atmosphere, which encourages laughter, learning, and lasting memories.
Are there year-round opportunities to meet and create with friends at Craft Lake City?
Yes, Craft Lake City is not solely a festival but an organization with a robust year-round educational program designed to promote and elevate local artisanship and creative culture. Beyond the summer festival, they host artisan workshops, youth entrepreneurship programs, and STEM initiatives. These regular events provide excellent opportunities to meet with friends for creative sessions, learn new crafts, or engage in cultural projects. For instance, workshops on topics like visible mending or other specialized crafts offer intimate and interactive settings perfect for small groups. Attending together allows you and your friends to bond through collective learning while gaining fresh skills. The inclusive environment means artists of all levels, from beginners to experts, can feel comfortable participating. Moreover, Craft Lake City organizes other signature events, such as the Holiday Market and the LetterWest conference, both of which attract community members eager to celebrate local art and culture. These recurring options provide flexibility throughout the year for meaningful group activities centered on creativity and collaboration.
How does Craft Lake City support local artisans and why does that matter for your meetup experience?
A core mission of Craft Lake City is to support and promote local artisans and creators, which profoundly enriches the experience for anyone attending their events. When you gather at Craft Lake City, you're stepping into a space that champions the sustainability and vitality of Utah’s creative economy. This means every purchase, every workshop, and every interaction helps independent artists thrive. For your group, this creates a powerful shared sense of purpose alongside your socializing — you are actively participating in a community effort to uplift local talent. The organization’s commitment to showcasing artisan work ensures there is always a fresh and authentic selection of goods and ideas to explore, which enhances the thrill of discovery during your meetup. This local focus also ensures the event atmosphere remains intimate and personable, as you meet the creators behind the crafts. Knowing that your day out supports these artists affords a rewarding dual benefit of fun and meaningful community contribution, resonating with groups who value intentional experiences.
Why is Craft Lake City’s inclusive and family-friendly environment ideal for group meetups with diverse ages?
Craft Lake City thoughtfully designs its events to be inclusive and welcoming to people of all ages and backgrounds, which is a significant advantage when planning meetups involving family or mixed-age groups. For example, children 12 and under enjoy free admission to the DIY Festival, and specific youth spaces like the SLC Stars Kid Area provide age-appropriate entertainment and educational opportunities. This means that whether your group includes kids, teens, young adults, or elders, everyone can engage in the fun without feeling left out. The variety of programming—from artisan markets to scientific exhibitions and live cultural performances—offers something to captivate each age group. Moreover, the festival’s safe and accessible venue, the Utah State Fairpark, provides spacious indoor and outdoor areas to explore comfortably without overcrowding. For groups that want a relaxed, diverse, and interactive outing, Craft Lake City templates the perfect environment to create shared experiences that span generations and foster strong social bonds.
What logistical features make Craft Lake City DIY Festival convenient for groups visiting?
Planning a meetup is smoother at Craft Lake City because the DIY Festival offers convenient and group-friendly amenities. The event is held at the large Utah State Fairpark, providing ample space for groups to roam freely without feeling crowded. Entrance is cashless with multiple payment options, reducing hassle especially for larger parties. The festival runs over three days with varying schedules, allowing groups to plan attendance based on their convenience or revisit to catch different exhibitors and performers. Food options are diverse and local, with new vendors featured each day so groups can sample a variety of culinary delights together. Pet-friendly policies (dogs allowed with an admission fee) also accommodate groups who want to bring furry friends along. Additionally, Craft Lake City’s volunteer programs and exhibitor opportunities invite deeper group engagement for those wanting to contribute or gain behind-the-scenes experience. Together, these features mean your group outing can be enjoyable, flexible, and well-supported.
How can participating in Craft Lake City workshops enhance your group meetup?
Taking part in Craft Lake City’s workshops beyond festivals is a wonderful way to lend your meetup a creative twist. These workshops cover a spectrum of crafts and skills facilitated by experienced local artisans. Whether learning a new technique like fiber arts, screen printing, or creative entrepreneurship, your group can bond through shared creation and skill-building. Workshops foster intimate social interactions and collaborations that typical festival roaming does not, making the experience feel more personal and rewarding. They also inspire conversation and connection around the craft process, which often leads to new appreciation and friendships. Because these workshops are community-focused and accessible, they suit a range of expertise and ages, providing a supportive environment to take creative risks together. Scheduling a workshop during your meetup can turn a simple gathering into a memorable hands-on cultural experience, deepening your engagement with both art and one another.
In summary, Craft Lake City offers a uniquely rich environment for meetups with friends and family by combining the best elements of a festival, artisan market, cultural incubator, and educational hub. Its blend of vibrant activities, community support, and welcoming atmosphere ensures every visit enriches social bonds, celebrates local creativity, and provides enjoyable, meaningful moments for groups of all ages.