Craft Shows For many independent and small businesses, arts and crafts shows are the best way to showcase their products. There are hundreds (if not thousands) of art festivals across the USA every year, so how do you choose which ones to attend?
The biggest factor is whether the show is right for your style. There’s no point turning up to classical art festival with modern products. You’ll stand out like a sore thumb. That being said, if you’re confident in the quality of your merchandise, go to any show you want.
Some of the best, and most exclusive art festivals require you to apply in advance with the products you intend to sell. This might seem vaguely elitist, but it allows them to make sure you’re a good fit for their style, and that they’re happy with your product.
To help you decide which shows are worth attending, we’ve collected together some of the best and most popular independent arts and crafts shows across the USA. We’ve included dates and a brief description to help you get a feel for the show, but more information can be found on their respective websites.
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https://www.stonemountainpark.com/Events/Yellow-Daisy-Festival
When: September 6-9
Where: Stone Mountain, Georgia
This is a great festival based in Georgia, and boasts an amazing range of artists from across the country. The application process is juried, and applications are due the middle of March every year for participation in September.
When: June 18-19
Where: Old Town Triangle District, Chicago
This great festival was voted number one for three years running by ArtFairCalendar.com, and boasts an audience of 250,000! Just think of the exposure you’d get from such a massive audience. Applications are accepted between September 15 and December 15 of every year, for display the following summer.
When: March 7-10
Where: La Quinta Civic Center, California
Voted the number one fine craft festival in the country, this one is a must-visit for any serious artist. It’s set against the backdrop of the glorious Greater Palm Springs, which is sure to inspire your creativity. Application is now open, and the closing date is September 30, 2018.
When: September 7-9
Where: Clayton, St Louis, MO
The fair prides itself on its range of art styles, and its promotion of up-and-coming artists. If you’re able to get there, this will be the place for great exposure. Application hasn’t opened for next year yet, but just keep an eye out.
When: October 5-7
Where: Historic Old Louisville, Kentucky
The organizers of this festival combine great food, great art, and street performances. Entry is free to visitors, so expect a very high turnout of local residents. Application deadlines are around the end of April for exhibition the following October.
When: July 6-8
Where: Cherry Creek, Denver, CO
They only display the best of the best at this festival, and people travel from all over the country to attend. Application is competitive, so make sure you get in early to avoid disappointment. Application opens the middle of March, and closes the beginning of May.
7. Cedar Key Fine Arts Festival
When: March 30-31
Where: Cedar Key, Florida
Set against the beautiful vista of historic Cedar Key, this is a small but engaging arts festival. There are an incredibly limited number of places for exhibition, but this only means there will be more customers to appreciate your work! Application is now open for next year, and the deadline is November 1.
When: August 10-12
Where: Sunriver, OR
Sunriver was voted best small town art fair by ArtFairCalendar.com for two years running, and is one of the best fairs in the country. They feature a range of fine artists and craftspeople, and consciously promote variety in their exhibitors. Application isn’t open for next year yet, but keep a close eye on their website. This definitely isn’t one to miss.
When: September 21-23
Where: Kansas City, MO
Another great festival that boasts visitor crowds of over 250,000. It’s worth showing at if you can, just for the sheer number of visitors alone. There’s a great mix of food, art, and performances on offer too, so you’ll be able to have a good time while you’re there. Application is open every year from February 1 – March 1, for exhibition the following September.
10. Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts
When: July 10-14
Where: State College, PA
This festival has been running for over 50 years, and it’s gotten bigger and better every time. Much longer than other festivals, it boasts a full five days of exhibition time! There are loads of different artists featured every year, along with music and food. Application isn’t open yet, but keep a look out on their site because places will fill up fast.
This is by no means an exhaustive list of the best arts and crafts festivals in the USA, but it’s a good start. If you’re passionate about exhibiting your art, try to attend as many as you can. While this won’t be possible for everyone due to finances, do everything you can to attend local festivals. These bigger festivals are great for exposure, but everyone has to start small and work their way up.
The best plan of action is to identify ones that fit in with your style, or that you feel would benefit from your art. Use the application process to make yourself stand out, and do everything you can to get noticed. You never know, this could be the first step on the great journey of a successful artist!
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