Over 135 of the Southeast’s finest artisans and crafters will come together at the Catholic Church of St. Ann on Dec. 2 and 3 for the 25th anniversary of the Apple Annie Crafts and Arts Show.

The Women’s Guild at St. Ann’s presents Apple Annie, now one of the largest nonprofit shows in the Southeast. Since its humble beginnings 25 years ago as a couple of foldout tables in front of a grocery store, Apple Annie has grown into a juried show attended by more than 6,000 shoppers in 2004. More than 135 artisans will present their wares, including beautiful pottery, art, woodwork, glassware, home accessories of every kind and holiday decorations. Apple Annie’s famous kitchen will be open throughout the show, featuring homemade soups and baked goods.

Show hours are 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 2 and from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Saturday. Admission is $2 and children under 12 years of age are admitted free. Strollers are not allowed.

All show proceeds are donated to church ministries and community outreach programs. In 2004, more than 16 local organizations benefited from proceeds of Apple Annie, ranging from programs that support victims of domestic violence to food kitchens for the homeless. Since its inception in 1981, Apple Annie has contributed more than $410,000 to church ministries and local charities.

“Apple Annie has been a great tradition for the Atlanta community for 25 years,” said Father Thomas Reilly, MS, pastor of St. Ann’s. “We’re bringing together two important agendas–the yearly tradition of holiday shopping and the timeless mission of St. Ann’s Catholic Church of reaching out to support those who cannot support themselves.”