Thousands of shoppers will converge at St. Ann Church on Friday, Dec. 1, and Saturday, Dec. 2, for the 26th Annual Apple Annie Crafts and Arts Show.

The Women’s Guild at St. Ann’s started Apple Annie in 1981 using a couple of fold-out tables in front of a grocery store with the purpose of raising funds for community outreach and the church. The show has grown to become one of the largest nonprofit shows in the Southeast. More than 135 artisans are selected by jury each year to present their wares, including beautiful pottery, art, woodwork, glassware, home accessories of every kind and holiday decorations.

Proceeds from the show are donated to church ministries and community outreach programs. In 2005, more than 16 local organizations benefited from the 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 $436,000 to church ministries and local charities.

“Apple Annie has been a great tradition for the Atlanta community for more than twenty-five years,” said Father Thomas Reilly, 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.”

Show hours are 9 a.m.-7 p.m. on Friday and 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m. on Saturday. Admission is $3. Children under 12 years of age are admitted free. Free parking is available at the church and nearby locations with complimentary shuttle service. No strollers please.

The church is located at 4905 Roswell Road in Marietta.