Two Craft Shows, One Day: How I Loaded Up, Packed Up, and Survived It Twice

This past Saturday was one of those big days I was looking forward to — two craft shows, back-to-back, in one single day. That meant loading the car, setting up, tearing down, packing everything back up, driving to the next location, and doing it all over again. It was exhausting… but also incredibly rewarding.

The truth is, these kinds of days don’t work without planning. When you’re doing two shows in a row, the smoothness of your setup and teardown makes all the difference. Over time, I’ve learned a few little systems that kept this day running (mostly) calmly, even when my feet were sore and my car felt like a craft-supply Tetris game.

What It’s Really Like Doing Two Shows in One Day

The morning starts early. Before the sun is even fully up, I’m loading bins, displays, boxes, signage, tablecloths, and backup supplies. Everything needs a “home” in the car so that unloading is fast and not overwhelming.

After the first show:

• everything gets repacked quickly

• fragile items are secured

• leftover inventory is reorganized

• quick snack and water break

• straight back in the car for round two

By the end of the second show, I’m tired — but in the best possible way.

My Best Tips for a Smooth Double-Show Day

Pack Like You’re Unloading in the Dark

Even if it’s daylight, labeling bins and organizing product saves so much stress. I don’t want to think when I arrive — I want to move.

Bring a Separate “Quick Access” Bag

This bag stays in the front seat and holds:

• scissors

• tape

• extra price tags

• pens

• snacks

• charger

• hand sanitizer

Use Packing Trays for Fast Teardow

Instead of wrapping everything individually, I use trays to group items by type. When it’s time to pack, I can lift a whole group at once.

Protect Your Energy, Not Just Your Products

Comfortable shoes, water, protein snacks, and a quick five-minute sit-down between shows can completely change your energy for show number two!

Loading and Packing Like a Pro

Here’s what helped the most:

• Keep a checklist taped inside a bin lid

• Bring a rolling cart

• Group bins so unloading the second time is faster than the first

• Park as close as possible to load-out areas

• Keep fragile items in one clearly marked box

The less thinking you have to do, the better!

The best part of days like this? Seeing people fall in love with handmade pieces. Watching customers slow down, smile, pick things up, and connect with your work makes every tired step worth it.

Doing two shows in one day is a lot — but it’s also a reminder of why I love what I do.

If you’re ever facing a double-show day, know this: you can do it! With the right prep, the right mindset, and a little bit of grace for yourself, it can be smooth, successful, and even fun.

And yes… you deserve a long rest after.