Calendar Critics' Picks Members Pick American Artisan Festival in Nashville on Jun 15, 2012 12:00 AM

Free

A Father's Day weekend tradition, this year's American Artisan Festival gives dads - and the rest of the family - a chance to take in the handiwork of 165 exhibitors from all over the country. The event represents that final chance to find a gift for the old man, or even get a jump on Christmas if you snag just the right piece to stow away until December. As always, the crafters seem to serve up something for everyone, including jewelry, pottery, wood, blown glass, photography, clothing, metal, outdoor furniture, toys, candles, batiks, handmade paper, leather, hats and more. In addition to the goods on display, the festival has a full lineup of musical guests as well as a dozen food vendors booked for the event. Nancy Saturn, the festival's founder, lost her battle with breast cancer in March 2010. Ten percent of the profits from the fest will go to support local arts organizations and Gilda's Club Nashville, one of Saturn's pet causes. This free three-day event begins at noon today. — Joe Nolan