Billy Magnum has been a vendor at the Holly Days Arts & Crafts show since its inception, and he is already signed up for this year’s ninth annual event, which is set for Dec. 3 at the Southern Cultural Heritage Center.

Vendors who are interested in joining Magnum and the variety of other craftsmen who will be participating in the show have until Sept. 12 to get their application in, executive director of the SCHF Stacey Massey said.

Each year, more than 25 artisans gather at the SCHC Auditorium, 1302 Adams St., to sell their wares.
Magnum, who is a Vicksburg resident, said he enjoys participating in the show and has done well selling his handmade and custom knives, which include pocket, hunting and Bowie knives.

“It’s been a good spot for me there and it has also generated sales,” he said.

Magnum said he makes the blades of his knives with 512 layers of Damascus steel and the handles vary in style.

“I make the handles out of burl wood, mammoth ivory, sweet gum balls pine cones and magnolia pods, he said.

Elke Briuer has also participated in the Holly Days Arts & Crafts show since its beginning.

Brieur is a local artist and brings hand painted note cards of Vicksburg landscapes. She also sells hand-painted Christmas cards.

“I make new Christmas cards every year,” she said.
Both Magnum and Briuer agree that the Holly Days Arts & Crafts show is an asset for the community and the SCHF.
“It’s a real good show. There is entertainment all day, and it benefits the SCHF,” Magnum said.

“Most of the vendors decorate really nicely, and they serve a nice lunch and cookies,” Briuer said.

In addition to Magnum and Briuer, vendors participating will offer candles, pottery, jewelry, t-shirts and holiday decorations.
Exhibit space is $40 for SCHF members and $50 for nonmembers, and space is limited, Massey said.

The “Holly Days” Arts & Crafts show will run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and admission is $1. Lunch will be offered on site.
For more information, call 601-631-2997, visit southernculture.org or email info@southernculture.org.