INDIEana Handicraft Exchange

Despite the rain, there was a lot of amazing vendors at this event and I was so happy that I ended up attending with some friends! I was really impressed that the venue was able to move outdoor vendors inside last minute and allow them use of their basement space. The selection was gigantic- clothing, actual bugs, jewelry, art... even a mobile yarn shop? There was definitely something for everyone. I do wish there were a few more food options but it was a small event and the ice cream and Thai I had for lunch was still really delicious!We will definitely have to attend again next year and hope the weather cooperates a little better the next time around. :)

The INDIEana Handicraft Exchange (super clever name might I add) offers a nice variety of locally made goods, including stuff for your home decor needs, local eats, and apparel. The location of the event is nice with ample street parking around the building and the vendors are always nice and welcoming. The layout creates a bit of a mess at times if there are too many people in the event, but there are lots of areas to discover local vendors so having them spread out throughout the building is nice. At times, they also offer giveback to local social service nonprofits so be sure to also keep in touch via social media to see if they're accepting donations during the event. Great event with lots of local vendors!

I found the winter event via Facebook last year, and was glad I did! This year was just as good, if not better, as I came a little more prepared. I was also happy to find out that there is a summer event, too! Glad I can purchase local goods all in one location twice a year. The building is a little confusing, and there are a lot of vendors (just under 60 according the website!), so I recommend giving yourself plenty of time to peruse. I parked on a side street both times, and wasn't too far from the venue, but I could see one might end up somewhat far if they came during peak time.I arrived early enough this time to pick up a goodie bag, which included a couple of items from vendors (wearing the nail polish I received right now - thanks Different Dimensions!) as well as some coupons (didn't see these until I got home - check your bag before you shop!). I checked out the vendor list before I came to expedite things, since it can be a bit crowded. Worked out great - I had purchased a ring last year from Sloane Jewelry and lost it, so wanted to get another because I loved it. I didn't see my ring at her booth, but I asked just in case, and sure enough she had the ring I was looking for behind the booth! So if you don't see quite what you're looking for, check with the vendor. There are lots of great things to see and buy - make sure you make it to both the gym and the basement! Various artist's studios, as well.

You probably know about the big hulabaloo that is INDIEana Handicraft Exchange in June - a giant indoor/outdoor shopping fair. But did you know they host a smaller version in December, which just so happens to (smartly) fall on First Friday?The one in June can be very hot and very crowded, so I preferred the wintertime version, although there were not as many vendors. The crowd favorites were still there, like Newfangled Confections, Homespun, Crimson Tate, Farizula Designs, Silver Linings Jewelry, Hoosier Proud, USI, Revival Food Co...the list goes on. Don't forget to check out vendors down in the basement and explore the open studio spaces!I love this bi-annual celebration of all things local and will put it on my calendar for 2016!

LOVE the funky mixture of vendors, food, and music. All of my senses were buzzing at once. I could stay here all day. My favorite stops included the "Here's the Scoop" tent that serves ice cream in a handmade ceramic bowl that you get to pick out yourself (for only $5)! I also loved the Mint Lilly tent and couldn't keep my eyes off all of the beautiful jewelry and cool bohemian headbands. I wish I had gotten to stay here longer- can't wait for the next Handicraft Exchange!Parking can get tight but can be found on the surrounding streets or in the CVS parking lot close by.

I'm not one to dilly dally in flea markets or call myself a "shopper" but boy, oh boy, do I light up when there's an event that specifically celebrates local and creative businesses. Everything from up cycled jewelry and nostalgic candy to local meads and Hoosier themed apparel. It's essentially a one stop shop for all that is quirky and cool. And because I'm always down for some tasty eats, I have to add that you'll find some of the best at the Handicraft Exchange such as Duos, Scratchtruck, LICK ice cream, New Day Meadery, Sun King and more. Parking can get on the crazy side with the Talbott Art Fair going on just up the street. Give yourself time and have fun!

I've been visiting this event for a few years now. Very much enjoy it as well as the art that is on display throughout the building. My favorite booth to visit is ArtMix.

Loads of vendor choices, tons of fun, and lots of art.Definitely a do over.

Those interested in getting a REAL taste of what Indianapolis has to offer, you must visit this awesome arts festival! A glimpse into the true heart of Indiana. A place where people of all colors, creeds and classes come together to appreciate the beauty and creativity of local artists. My first visit was also my first time as a vendor for the event. Even though it was ri-donk-ulously hot and humid, the Indy folk turned out in fine style! Everyone was so generous, considerate and chill. The booths are set up around the Harrison Art Center, as well as inside the art center halls and gymnasium. Even though the space is a bit tight throughout the grounds, you can still get some space in the indoor art galleries. Rooms and halls are lined with the most amazing glass works, paintings, and other creations from urban artists in the nearby neighborhoods. I took a quick break to grab a cider from New Day and check out the booths for a minute. The building is kind of a maze, but it was fun to explore President Benjamin Harrison's community church.Alas, I didn't get the chance to stop by the Yelp booth, but if you were one of the first 100 lucky chums to check in to the event, you received a super cute IHE canvas bag with some groovy swag from various vendors. So bummed I couldn't get one. There's also some good eats at the festival, thanks to many of Indy's rockin' food trucks! And where was my booth? Right next to Scratch Truck and the General American Donut Co. food truck. Great. The donut truck had the audacity to have a donut ice cream sandwich! Rob had two. He told everyone who came by our booth about the awesomeness that he just experienced. He should've received some sort of commission for pushing their food.Even better, this event is free! And most of the vendors use the Square readers, making it easier to impulse spend. The atmosphere is family-friendly, where people can get their artsy fartsy fix. The prices are quite affordable, and the goods are more utilitarian. Not just home and garden decor, but things that can be used on a daily basis. You will definitely walk away with something! The only downer is the parking. It's definitely slim pickens. There's a couple nearby lots that charge for parking, but they fill up fast. I'd definitely get there early for a decent spot. if you come out in the middle of the day, expect to park 3-5 blocks away. Most of the artists that participate in this event are also involved with the shop that hosts the festival, Homespun Indy. if you enjoyed the IHE, then you can get unique, local products year-round at their Mass Ave location. The festival continues to captivate the hearts, minds and support of the Indy community, and that's pretty awesome.

Having somehow made it 9 years without attending, I knew that going this year was a must and I was not disappointed! Run by the folks that brought Indy Homespun: Modern Handmade, the amount and variety of vendors was impressive. I enjoyed speaking with the makers regarding their products. Booths were all over the Harrison Center both indoor and outdoor. One minor complaint is that it was difficult at times to move around in the gymnasium. Maybe putting more of the booths outside might help.Come prepared to eat, drink, shop, and walk! Don't forget to stop by at the raffle booth which supports two worthy charities. P.S.: Thanks to Yelp for being a sponsor and handing out great totes!