Sycamore Autumn Craft & Treasure Market, a staple of Sycamore Pumpkin Festival, commemorates 50 years

In 1972, milk and gasoline were less than $1 a gallon, Americans began hearing about something called Watergate, Marlon Brando made an offer that couldn't be refused, Mikey discovered he likes Life, and one of the best craft fairs in the Midwest was born.

That craft fair became formally known as the Sycamore Autumn Craft & Treasure Market, and for half a century, it has provided:

• Area residents thousands of unique gifts ideas just in time for the holidays;

• An excellent addition to the Sycamore Pumpkin Festival;

• A great way to support small, local businesses;

• A wonderful sense of community because the entire event supports Sycamore music programs.

The second half-century of the Autumn Craft & Treasure Market begins soon. It runs 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 29, and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 30, at the Sycamore High School Field House, 427 Spartan Trail.

Admission is $2 or $1 for students and seniors. Children under 5 are free (same prices as 2021). Proceeds benefit the Sycamore Music Boosters.

Jenelle Robers, Boosters president and vendor chair, said in early October that even though the registration deadline had passed, the Boosters would still accept vendor applications up to 115 booths.

"We're thrilled that our craft fair has grown and prospered for 50 years," Robers said. "It's just wonderful being part of an event an entire region looks forward to each year, and we hope 2022 is our best year yet."

Situated during lovely Illinois autumn, just before the holidays and along with the Sycamore Pumpkin Festival, the market draws about 6,000 shoppers to more than 100 booths in an indoor, climate-controlled facility.

Craft fair vendors offer thousands of one-of-a-kind items ranging from textiles to jewelry, to art to home decorations, to foods and spices, to pet paraphernalia.

Shoppers enjoy free, on-site parking at SHS. Thanks to golf carts supplied by the Sycamore Park District, shoppers can get free rides to/from vehicles. The ACTM will also offer a variety of foods, beverages and desserts.

Sycamore Music Boosters supports students in K-12 music programs offered within Sycamore Community School District 427. Its board of directors is a volunteer group of parents and community members. Board meetings are open to the public. For information, email sycamoremusicboosters@gmail.com or visit sycamoremusicboosters.com for more information, and follow on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.