VENDORS AND VISITING THE PAST. Enjoy free admission to the Chippewa Area History Center and peruse vendors on March 29.

Since opening two years ago, the Chippewa Area History Center (CAHC) has hosted a vendor fair the day after Thanksgiving to promote community engagement with local history. This year, CAHC volunteer Darlene Brain and a volunteer committee are hosting the event earlier in the year with the same vision.  

On Saturday, March 29, the History Center will offer free admission during the vendor fair – hosted from 11am-5pm – inviting visitors to explore the museum’s exhibits while browsing local vendors spread across all three floors. 

"A lot of people who attend wouldn’t typically come to the history center,” Brain said. “But when they come to the vendor fair, they find a lot of interest here.” 

Kids and families can also participate in a scavenger hunt for the chance to win a prize, gathering clues from the exhibits and stopping by to check out vendor booths along the way. A variety of goods will be available, from crocheted stuffed animals and custom-made gloves to candles and homemade soy-based soaps. Outside the museum, Primal Pizza food truck will be serving up fresh slices for hungry visitors. 

“I love meeting the vendors and seeing people come in,” Brain said. “It’s fun to see the interactions – especially with the kids – and I love how it connects people with their local history and brings the community together.” 

The Chippewa Area History Center (12 Bridgewater Ave., Chippewa Falls) is open Wednesday-Sunday, 11am-5pm • To register as a vendor for the spring event, reach out by email at store@cahcwi.org or call (715) 723-4399 for more information • Learn more about about the Chippewa Area History Center (chippewaareahistorycenter.org)