Its goal is to showcase the history of Catawba Valley alkaline glazed stoneware and the potters who continually produce this traditional utilitarian ware. Historically most potters utilized wood-fired kilns at home sites and relied on word-of-mouth sales. Thus the CVP&AF provides an annual sale where pottery made in Catawba Valley can be purchased. Over the years, development and growth have allowed the Festival to include potters from across the state and the South, as well as dealers offering historical pottery and antiques and providing a context for understanding the history and use of pottery in the South.