The crowd at the Parkersburg South High School Craft Show this past Saturday packed nearly every inch of the school to peruse the vendors. (Photo by Gwen Sour)

PARKERSBURG — Parkersburg South High School buzzed with activity this weekend as it hosted its 15th annual craft show, a cornerstone fundraiser for the school’s cheerleading program.

The event showcased 188 vendors, filling three gymnasiums, the cafeteria, and connecting hallways, offering everything including seasonal decorations, crocheted goods, woodworking and so much more.

The craft show launched over a decade ago at the local armory, starting with just 70 vendors. Today, it has grown into a beloved tradition, drawing hundreds of shoppers and vendors, with many reserving their spots for next year before the event ends.

“It’s amazing to see how much it’s grown,” said Duane Nutt, the cheerleading coach. “The community really comes out to support us every year, and it’s great to see everyone enjoying themselves.”

Proceeds from vendor fees directly support the cheerleading program, funding essentials like transportation, meals, and competition expenses. The event is one of the cheer team’s largest fundraisers, as well as other activities like a golf tournament, a summer cheer camp, and an upcoming Breakfast with Santa on December 14 at South Parkersburg Baptist Church.

“Breakfast with Santa has really taken off,” said Nutt. “Our Santa is incredible, truly the real deal and it’s become a favorite tradition for families.”

Among the diverse booths was a vendor, Marijean Stockwell, specializing in handmade ties, a business sparked by an eighth-grade home economics project.

“I had leftover fabric and decided to make a tie,” Stockwell said. “It stuck with me, and now I love finding fun and unique fabrics, especially Snoopy ones!”

Stockwell stated that she enjoyed attending the craft fair specifically for the people and that she sees it as a wonderful opportunity to interact with the community.

Attendees also enjoyed the wide variety available, often using the craft fair as an opportunity to get their holiday shopping for the season.

“We come every year,” said Grace Dunn, one of the craft show’s attendees, “It’s a really wholesome way to see people you haven’t seen for a while, eat some food and then we don’t have to go to a million different stores, keeps our money local.”

As the craft show wrapped up, vendors and attendees alike celebrated its success. The cheerleaders are now turning their focus to upcoming competitions, including the Ohio Valley Athletic Conference event in February.

Parkersburg South High School welcomes community support through fundraisers or direct donations for those wishing to contribute to the cheer program or other school initiatives.

For more information about supporting the cheer program or upcoming events, contact Duane Nutt at patriotcheercoach@gmail.com or 304-420-9610.

Gwen Sour can be reached at gsour@newsandsentinel.com