Highland High’s Artisan Market boasts brand new expansion, champions budding musicians
Students ask a vendor to consider a donation to Bucks for Band, to help pay for band fees for two students, last year at the Highland Band and Choir Boosters’ Spring Artisan Market in April 2025. (file photo)
By Brittany Blackwell, Reporter • A simple idea to uplift young musicians has blossomed into one of the school community’s most eagerly awaited events of the season.
On Saturday, April 25, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Highland High School will come alive as the Highland Band and Choir Boosters host their Spring Artisan Market at 12760 Troxler Ave. Entry is free, though donations are welcome. Visitors can browse an array of creations from local crafters, artists and makers, all in support of the school’s music program. Now in its second year – the market takes place twice a year each spring and fall – this edition marks its third occurrence.
The market is thoughtfully curated, with vendors required to offer goods that are at least half hand-made, ensuring a unique and diverse shopping experience. Some vendors journey from across the region, while others are talented local students and their families, who help bring the event to life as both sellers and volunteers.
With growing excitement, organizers have recently been approved to expand the market again. This spring, shoppers can explore a new outdoor section of booths near the school’s main entrance. In the fall, even more vendors will fill the gymnasium, adding capacity on the main lower floor.
The market has exceeded expectations since the beginning, growing from a modest goal of a handful of vendors into a significant fundraiser supporting roughly 400 students in choir, band and the color guard in the Highland School District.
Highland High School trombone player Parker Dressler shows off his woodworking skills at the Highland Band and Choir Boosters’ Fall Artisan Market in November 2025. Dressler, a freshman, is also on the school’s bowling team. (file photo)
“If we could make a couple thousand dollars and have 30 vendors, that would be great,” said Laura Mulcahy, market organizer and the boosters’ vice president. “Instead, we had about 90 the first time.”
The second market drew 105 vendors, and this spring’s event is set to feature 136 booth spaces, with some vendors showcasing their work in multiple spots. Shoppers can discover everything from hand-crafted wood and metal art to sweet treats and personalized shirts.
The spark for the market came during a brainstorming session, as Mulcahy searched for creative ways to boost funding beyond the usual small fundraisers. Though not yet a board member, her passion was fueled by her children’s involvement in music at both the middle and high school levels. Since then, boosters’ president Elizabeth O’Dell has been a supporter, sharing Mulcahy’s belief in the music program’s value as a fellow parent of young musicians.
The market’s success has been significant, making it the group’s first fundraiser to exceed $5,000. These proceeds help provide everything from sheet music and instruments to travel, scholarships, clinics and meals for student musicians in grades five through 12.
As the event continues to grow, its mission remains the same; it’s about building up the community through investing in the arts. As a music therapist, O’Dell described the benefits of embracing music, including enhanced brain function and academic improvement.
“We want every kid who wants to be in band or choir to have that opportunity,” said O’Dell. “We’d rather work harder behind the scenes than raise fees and lose kids.”
To help keep Highland’s music programs thriving, supporters can reach organizers directly at [email protected] to get involved or learn more. You can also check out the Highland Band & Choir Artisan Market Facebook page.
Creator Erin Hoepfner showcases her and her husband Ryan’s company called Smokehouse Jellies last November at the Highland Band and Choir Boosters’ Fall Artisan Market. The couple have a son in the band program. (Brittany Blackwell photo)
Creator Kalee Ford showcases her works as part of her company called Glitter and Dirt, where she makes wreaths and welcome signs for porches. Ford also grows and propagates plants. She has two nephews in the band program. (Brittany Blackwell photo)
