Working with one’s hands is said to be one of the most rewarding ways to spend time while another sense of accomplishment can be experience in learning something new. Traditional Craft Weekend at Canterbury Shaker Village, a member of the New Hampshire Museum Heritage Trail’s Merrimack Valley Region, offers visitors the chance to experience both 
feelings.
On Saturday, June 2, and Sunday, June 3, 50 traditional craftspeople will share their skills with visitors with the event lasting from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on both days at 288 Shaker Rd. in Canterbury, NH.
Some of the crafts on display will include woodworking, rug hooking and braiding, wool sock making, hand-stitching leather items, broom making, weaving, letterpress printing and more. Visitors will also be able to try their own hand at these skills.
“This is a top-notch group of craftspeople,” said David Emerson, one of the organizers of the event. “Their enthusiasm for their work is contagious. If you’ve ever wished you could become adept at a handcraft, chances are good you’ll find one that appeals to you and an experienced teacher to ensure your success.”
Craftspeople during the two-day event include furniture maker David Lamb of Canterbury, Penobscot basket maker Barbara Francis of Maine and blacksmith Gary Kalaijan. There also will be oxen from Sanborn Mills Farm in Loudon.
The event also features music with live music kicking off in June 2 at 10 a.m. with Badger’s Drift. Doug Hazard follows on stage at noon followed by New Found Grass with a show from 2-4 p.m. On June 3, music by Ryan and Brennish Thompson and Entangled Strings.
A workshop on dry laid wall construction will also be available. Those interested may sign up at www.shakers.org/dry-laid-stone-walls. The cost is $157.50 for members and $175 for non-members.
Tickets for Traditional Craft Days may be purchased ahead of time or at the door. Members can attend at no cost. Admission costs for non-members are $19 for adults, $9 for children ages 6-17 and free for children 5 and younger. Tickets are good for both days.
Shaker Village is open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Tuesdays to Sundays through Sept. 2 and daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. from Sept. 3 through Oct. 28. From Nov. 3 through Dec. 2, Shaker Village will be open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekends only.
For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.shakers.org.
In total, 17 museums make up the NH Heritage Museum Trail. Stops on The Trail include Canterbury, Concord, Dover, Exeter, Laconia, Manchester, Moultonborough, Plymouth, Plymouth, Tamworth and Wolfeboro.