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Pottery is one of the oldest professions and art forms in the world, where the earliest pottery discovered dates back to more than 18,000 years. Interestingly, this art form has remained untouched by technology and is still hand-made using wheels. The Sanford Pottery Festival is held with the aim of promoting this art. It is the largest event held in North Carolina which is famous for its pottery in the entire world, Seagrove being the pottery capital.

Started by Richard Gillson, the festival is held in the first week of May, showcasing talent from all over the country. Gillson, in fact, had also started the Seagrove Pottery Festival more than 27 years ago. The Sanford Pottery Festival is more of an extension of the same. What began as a small in 2002 has grown to be one of the most celebrated events of the year. With potters and pottery fans coming from all over the United States, the festival displays some very interesting items. Both festivals were started with an aim to promote the art, and benefit the potters and collectors alike.

Each year the event brings in thousands of attendees from all over the country as well as foreign visitors holidaying in Sanford. The festival exhibits an extensive collection of pottery by different artists. The items are arranged in booths by the participants. The pottery displayed includes porcelain embellished with crystalline glazes and some contemporary and traditional clay creations. It is quite interesting to watch each piece of pottery depicting the unique style of every artist.

The reason why any people take flights to Sanford,USA to see the festival, is the variety in the collections and their efforts in encouraging the artists, both pros and amateurs. Anyone with an artistic inclination and some unique quality in making pottery is given a chance to exhibit their work.

A little bit of flair was added to the festival in 2009, where vineyards from surrounding areas were invited in a wine tasting event. Since then it has become part of the festival itself. Whether you are interested in pottery or not, the festival makes a great outing with the entire family. The entry fee for all attendees is $5, and those wanting to attend the wine tasting event must pay $10 as the fee. However, entry to wine tasting is allowed only for those above the age of 21 years.