Can't stomach holiday shopping madness at the mall? There are alternatives.

A holiday tradition continues Friday through Sunday when 300 artists and craftspeople gather for the seventh annual Sugarloaf Crafts Festival at the Dulles Expo Center in Chantilly.

Hours are:

• Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The festival takes place right in the middle of prime shopping season for the holidays. Anyone looking for a unique gift will likely find one among the more than 300 craftspeople who will be on hand showcasing their one-of-a-kind pottery, sculpture, glass, jewelry, fashion, wood, metal, furniture, home accessories, photography and fine art.

Many of the artists on hand (see photos of their work in the photo gallery here on the site) are from the area, including:

Greg and Amy Wandless of Fairfax (pottery and woodworking)
Wandless Crafts 

Ashley Robertson of Woodbridge (handmade soaps)
Finchberry Soapery 

Robert & Elizabeth Piland of Haymarket (jewelry)
R.E. Piland Goldsmiths 

Linda Eszenyi of Ashburn (photography)
Linda’z Lenz 

For more information about the festival, visit the Sugarloaf Crafts Festival Web site.