Sweetwater Woman’s Club Holiday Craft Show: 57 Years of Giving Back
For nearly six decades, the Sweetwater Woman’s Club in Bonita has turned holiday cheer into college dreams. What began as a small fundraiser with handmade decorations has grown into a three-day community event filled with local artisans, festive gifts, and a mission to help students in the Sweetwater Union High School District.
A Tradition Rooted in Creativity
The first Sweetwater Women’s Club craft fair featured homemade ornaments and holiday décor crafted by members who sewed, painted, and knitted each piece. Back then, local homes were decorated with these handmade treasures, and neighbors could buy tickets to tour them. The money raised went directly toward scholarships for graduating seniors—a tradition that continues today.
Over time, the event evolved. Now, close to two dozen local artists and small business owners set up booths to sell their creations. A portion of each sale supports the Club’s scholarship fund and other community programs.
Why a Craft Show?
Instead of fancy dinners or galas, the Club chose something more personal—a craft fair where shoppers can find one-of-a-kind gifts and decorations. According to board member Margaret Peña, the event has become the Club’s most anticipated fundraiser of the year.
Each year, new vendors join, bringing handmade jewelry, décor, art, and more. The fair also includes silent auctions, raffles, and baskets donated by local businesses—all helping raise money for scholarships.
Scholarships That Change Lives
For many students, these scholarships mean more than just financial help. They represent encouragement and community support.
Jessica Macias, a 2011 graduate of Castle Park High, shared, “As a first-generation Latina, this scholarship made me feel seen and helped pay for my first-year textbooks at SDSU.”
Ashley Danielle Lumanlan, from Sweetwater High’s Class of 2025, added, “The Sweetwater Woman’s Club Scholarship helped cover my tuition and lab costs as I pursue nursing at SDSU. It opened the door to my future.”
Supporting Local Artisans and the Community
The Sweetwater Woman’s Club Holiday Craft Show benefits everyone involved. Local makers connect with shoppers who love to support small businesses, while attendees enjoy browsing and buying unique handmade gifts. The event also gives vendors a chance to network and grow their customer base.
“It’s truly a community event,” Peña said. “Every purchase supports our scholarship program and allows students to succeed.”
If you would like to get more information about the Sweetwater Women’s Club, please visit their website here.
The Heart Behind the Event
Club members handle every detail—from organizing vendors to preparing raffle prizes and even baking homemade treats for the event. Each year, they design a handmade quilt to raffle off and offer plants and specialty cheese products for sale.
“It’s a labor of love,” Peña shared. “We come together to make sure every student has a brighter future.”
Sweetwater Woman’s Club Looking Ahead
Membership in the Sweetwater Woman’s Club continues to grow, bringing in more women who want to give back. As college and trade school costs rise, the Club hopes to expand its scholarship fund with additional donors and support.
“There’s no better investment than in our kids’ education,” Peña said.
Bonita Craft Fair Event Details
The 57th Annual Holiday Craft Show runs Thursday, October 16, through Saturday, October 18, from 10 AM to 4 PM each day. Stop by to shop local, enjoy the holiday spirit, and support the next generation of students—all while celebrating the community that makes Bonita special.
