A 40-year tradition: EGHS Craft Fair Nov. 5

November 1983: Michael Jackson releases the single "Thriller" worldwide. A young Tom Cruise is among top box office draws with "All the Right Moves." And, Elk Grove High School (EGHS) hosts its first community Craft Fair.

Yes, you could say that "Thriller" sold a few copies and, yes, Tom Cruise remains a box office draw. But it's hard to argue with the staying power of the EGHS Craft Fair. The annual event is bigger and better than ever and - on Sunday, Nov. 5 - will celebrate its 40th year (with one year lost to the pandemic).

Officially billed as the 40th Holiday Art Craft Vendor Show, the event offers an early start to holiday shopping, as more than 250 crafters display their creations in the high school's field house, main and auxiliary gymnasiums and cafeteria.

The fair consistently delivers on its mission of raising funds for the school's nonathletic clubs and groups, typically raising about $20,000 a year through admission fees, raffles and space rental to vendors. For visitors, it's an opportunity to begin stashing holiday gifts: home-crafted jewelry, holiday decorations, unique birdhouses, scarves and sweaters, wood and metal crafts of all kinds - you name it, it's available.

"This is my absolute favorite event; it's an event extraordinaire," says Dianne Sprenger, an EGHS staff member who is leading this year's effort. Sprenger first became involved as a volunteer for the school's Parent Teacher Council, which organizes and conducts the event - this year under the leadership of new PTC President Janet Kester.

"There are so many volunteer staff and students and parents and guardians who make this happen; it really does take a village. Vendors are here from Michigan and Wisconsin and all over suburban Chicago."

This year's fair is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at EGHS, 500 W. Elk Grove Blvd., in Elk Grove Village. Admission is only $3, and supports the school's clubs and groups.

And while Sprenger and her crew work hard to make the event a success, she credits her predecessors.

"It was so well organized before I even got involved. The standard they set back in the '80s was a huge help. It's a great kickoff to the holiday season. Everyone is just in a good mood and having fun."

While EGHS runs the longest-running craft fair in District 214, it is not alone. The Nov. 19 Prospect High School Craft Show will also feature vendors and shopping opportunities from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the school's field house. This is a fundraiser for Prospect Teacher-Parent Council, with proceeds going to support organizations, events and activities for Prospect students. Prospect is at 801 W. Kensington Road, in Mount Prospect. Admission will be $4 for adults, $2 for students and free for Prospect students with student ID and children under 10.