BISMARCK, N.D. (KXNET) — The holiday shopping season is upon us, and many people are already rushing to take advantage of special sales to find the perfect gifts for their loved ones. Thankfully for those not willing to face the battle that is Black Friday, the Big One Art and Craft Show is a perfect opportunity to find one-of-a-kind creations, and do so while supporting local creators. According to the Big One's website, the event initially began in 1975, when sisters Lois and Carol hosted their first winter show in Minot. It proved to be popular, and quickly extended into a Fargo fall show in 1988 and a Minot spring show in 1991. Eventually, in 2006, the two relinquished control of The Big One over to another pair of sisters and exhibitors (Lisa and Stacy Frank) who secured another show in Mandan three years later. This would eventually be moved to Bismarck in 2010, where it currently takes place. "The original Big One started because one of the founders crafted too much," says Lisa Frank, who now serves as the show's promoter, "and they needed some way of getting rid of it. In time, they wanted to completely retire, so we took over." Nowadays, The Big One shows include hundreds of different vendors, all of whom are on-site to show and sell their handcrafted wares. Popular items on sale include locally made furniture, clothing, food, soaps, rugs, and much more. This vast variety helps bring customers of every age and interest to the shows, some of whom come from beyond the Peace Garden State to buy or sell offerings that can't be found anywhere else. Weekend BRB: Oktoberfest comes early at Sertoma Park While Frank notes that the Big One has not experienced tremendous growth over time (as it has always been a fairly large event), it has seen many changes, especially regarding what exactly is being sold. As vendors and guests rotate, so too do the items on display — mainly due to the constant change in crafting trends and ways that people can make unique works of art. "We've seen a shift in what's sold over the years," she continues. "The biggest reason is technology, like laser-engraving and 3D printing and everything you can do with computers. We have a few vendors this year doing 3D-printed toys, and that's something you could never have a few years ago. It's very interesting to me: as humans progress, so does the crafting world." Although the show focuses on helping attendees find perfect gifts, The Big One is also a very important time for the sellers. For many, this is a tremendous opportunity to meet and showcase their wares to a massive audience and network with others who can help promote their products. Frequent vendor Lori Matthys of 3-D Creations, who sells her acrylic paintings and homemade treats at the Big One, says that the chance to do so — especially at such an iconic event — is always enjoyable. "These events give us exposure," she states, "and help us market our items while having a lot of fun. Making a personal connection with customers is a great feeling... I meet a lot of people, and they become my friends. I look forward to seeing them every show, and they look forward to learning what's new in my shop." Frank, meanwhile, notes that buyers also appreciate the ability to deal with their holiday gifting concerns while aiding small businesses. "These events help the sellers," adds Frank, "but I also think that as consumers, we should really try to focus on supporting little mom-and-pop shops versus huge chains. A lot of people will come to the Big One to get their Christmas shopping done. It's a main event for those looking to avoid big-box stores." This idea of connecting communities and creators, Frank believes, is a concept that has allowed the Big One to last for so many years — and one that will presumably allow it to carry on for many more. "It's a celebration of creativity," she concludes. "Everybody has such great and unique talents, and this is a great place to show them off." The Bismarck Big One will last until 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 23rd. Click here for more information on the Winter showcase and future events. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Today's Top Stories SIGN UP NOW