36th Annual ABOB Craft Fair to Raise Money for Alton Student Musicians

ALTON - Community members can once again support the Alton Community Unit School District #11 band and orchestra program at the ABOB Olde Alton Arts and Craft Fair.

On Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025, and Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, at Alton High School, The Alton Band and Orchestra Builders (ABOB) will host their 36th annual fair. Crafters from across the region will be selling their wares ahead of the holiday season, and all proceeds will go toward students’ needs in the district’s music program.

“The Craft Fair is truly ‘instrumental’ in ensuring all Alton School District students have access to the exceptional music program,” said Amy Macias, who organized this year’s fair alongside her husband, Brian. “This event [is] a wonderful way to celebrate the arts while contributing to a meaningful cause.”

On Saturday, Dec. 6, the fair is open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and admission costs $4. On Sunday, Dec. 7, the fair is open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and admission costs $3. Kids 12 and under are free. Breakfast opens at 8 a.m. on Saturday and 9 a.m. on Sunday.

Crafters and artisans will set up their booths throughout the hallways in Alton High School. The fair always quickly sells out booth spaces, and this year is no different. Macias noted they have welcomed artists from as far away as Kentucky, Tennessee and Texas, and she hopes many people come out to see their unique creations.

“A hallmark of the fair is its commitment to craftsmanship, as every product must be at least 51% handmade,” she explained. “Shoppers can look forward to a wide variety of items, including many Christmas-themed creations that make perfect gifts for the holiday season. With all booth spaces sold out, attendees can expect a vibrant and diverse showcase of creativity. “

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Money from the artists’ booth rental fees and ticket sales all goes back to ABOB. As an organization, ABOB was founded in 1948 and serves as “a cornerstone of support” for Alton’s music program, Macias said. They help connect students with the resources they need to successfully participate in the music program.

The 36th Annual ABOB Olde Alton Arts and Craft Fair is projected to raise nearly $30,000, which will be used to “sustain and enhance music education for our young musicians,” Macias added.

ABOB is primarily maintained by parents in the school district. Most of these parents have children who have reaped the benefits of Alton’s music program.

Macias noted that her daughter currently plays the violin in the orchestra at Alton Middle School, while her son is pursuing a major in music education at Illinois State University, a passion sparked when he began music lessons at North Elementary School as a fourth grader.

“Brian and I are grateful for the opportunity to support this outstanding program in any way we can,” Macias added. “Many music parents also devote countless hours to help ABOB thrive, and their commitment keeps the spirit of this organization strong.”

For more information about ABOB, including how to support them, visit their official website at ABOB.net. To learn more about the 36th Annual ABOB Olde Alton Arts and Craft Fair, click here.

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