One of the area’s most unique craft shows is in full swing at the Cullman Civic Center Saturday, as the Alabama Gourd Show returns for the 21st year.

Gourd artists, suppliers and enthusiasts from across the country have come from around the country to share their love for the versatile fruit, and newcomers are certainly welcome as well, said Alabama Gourd Society President Mack Gothard.

He said this year’s show features everything from painted gourds, carved gourds, molded gourds and many other embellishments that make them into great display pieces. 

“It’s some beautiful artwork,” he said.

Every gourd on display on the main floor is for sale, and an exhibition containing all of this year’s award winners is open for anyone wanting to take a peek at some ideas that they may want to try for next year’s show.

Gothard said some of the gourds may have the same art styles or techniques on them, but all gourds are different, so nothing on display at the show is the same as another.

“It’s not mass produced,” he said. “They’re unique and one-of-a-kind.”

Cullman has been host to the event for the past 21 years bringing in people from all around the country.

“We draw people from California to New Hampshire,” he said. “In other words, we have a following.”

While there is already a large following of gourd aficionados who come to the show each year, new people are always welcome into the fold, Gothard said. 

He said demonstrations and classes are scheduled throughout the event, and the experts present at the gourd show are happy to share their techniques with anyone who is interested.

“Come over and we’ll talk to you,” he said. “That’s one thing about gourd artists, they don’t keep the secret, they’ll show you and tell you.”

The Alabama Gourd Show is open today until 5 p.m. Admission to the event is free.

For more information about the show or the Alabama Gourd Society, visit alabamagourdsociety.org.