About This Festival
The Delta Theta Tau Gift & Hobby Show is an annual arts and crafts event held at Shelbyville Middle School in Shelbyville, Indiana. In 2024, the event takes place on November 2nd from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. This year marks the 52nd anniversary of the show. It features over 100 vendors offering handcrafted toys, jewelry, florals, porcelains, confections, apparel, and more. Visitors can also enjoy refreshments during the event. The show is handicapped accessible and free to enter. Proceeds support local charities in Shelby County.
The event is hosted by the Delta Theta Tau Sorority, Zeta Lambda Chapter, a national women's organization dedicated to philanthropy and community welfare. Volunteers assist with set up, tear down, and event operations. The show’s location is Shelbyville Middle School, 1200 W. McKay Road.
The vibe of the event is community-centered and festive, providing a shopping experience that combines arts, crafts, and local philanthropy. It attracts both shoppers and vendors who treasure handmade and unique goods, creating a friendly and charitable atmosphere.
Activities and Features
- Shopping from over 100 vendors featuring:
- Handcrafted toys
- Jewelry (including custom design and repair services associated with Delta Theta Tau)
- Florals and porcelains
- Confections and treats
- Apparel and other gift items
- Refreshments available on site
- Socializing and community engagement
- Volunteer opportunities supporting event logistics and charity efforts
Rough Schedule (November 2, 2024)
- 9:00 a.m.: Doors open to the public
- 9:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.: Vendor shopping and browsing throughout Shelbyville Middle School
- Refreshment stands open during event hours
- 3:00 p.m.: Event closes
History and Founding
The Gift & Hobby Show has a long-standing tradition of 52 years as of 2024, originally founded by the Delta Theta Tau Sorority, Zeta Lambda Chapter. It was established to provide a marketplace for local artisans and to raise funds for community charities in Shelby County. Over the decades, it has grown in size and reputation, becoming one of the staple community shopping and charity events in the region.
This event reflects both a celebration of craftsmanship and a philanthropic spirit, supporting local causes and fostering community fellowship.
Location and Surroundings
Shelbyville Middle School is centrally located in Shelbyville, Indiana, within Shelby County in the Central region of the state. The school venue provides easy accessibility and ample space to accommodate the large number of vendors and attendees. The surrounding area includes typical small-town amenities with restaurants, shops, and local attractions, contributing to a welcoming environment for visitors attending the show.