The Cole County Extension's Fall Festival expects 160 vendors and 3,000 visitors at its 41st year of the event, which takes place 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday at the Jefferson City Jaycees Fairgrounds.
"It's a great chance to come out and see unique items. It's just overwhelming," said Jane Kempker, administrative assistant at the Cole County Extension, who has coordinated the event for the past 18 years.
"Extension Fall Festival is only once a year," she continued. "So many people come out and do their Christmas shopping."
Kempker highlighted the handmade crafts like woodworking, leather items, yard arts and home decor that have been staples of the festival since its inception. "Not much has changed since the beginning of the festival," she said.
What has changed is the space needed. There are about twice as many vendors as in the 1970s. Some of the vendors have been part of the festival for more than 20 years. At least one vendor has come for the past 25 years.
Because of this growth, the layout needed restructuring.
"When folks come in, they should see everything," Kempker said. "Most of them just come in, buy something from a special vendor and leave."
Admission is $2, or free for children 12 and under. All proceeds support the Cole County Extension Center and its programs.
"We ask that those coming out please come with cash," Kempker said. "Some vendors do take credit cards, but not all do."