If you’re searching for handmade goods, look no further than Wisconsin. In a state with hundreds of galleries and local artisans with permanent displays, it’s no surprise we have an equal love for annual arts and crafts events. Perfect for a family getaway with your mom, grandmother or sisters, every season in Wisconsin holds a variety of arts and crafts fairs to discover. Take a look!
Winter
Each winter, Wisconsinites head indoors to shop for our arts and crafts, which happen to double as perfect holiday gifts. In Franklin, re:Craft & Relic is a local favorite, with 150 vendors specializing in Instagram-worthy vintage, handmade and upcycled finds.
Cedarburg is known for its small-town charm, and when you add in their annual Holiday Art Fair it becomes even more delightful. Admire the town’s historic cream city brick buildings, then visit the fair that features 40 professional artists.
For a dose of on-trend crafts and quirky pieces, Madison’s The Crafty Fair is a must. Cheeky pins? Contemporary jewelry? Painted mugs? Hand-knit sweaters? It’s all here.
Spring
Lakefront Artist Fair – Racine
As the weather begins to warm, it’s time to put a few outdoor arts and crafts fairs on your calendar, including the Lakefront Artist Fair in Racine. Enjoy beautiful views as you peruse paintings, clothing, garden art and pottery created by 125 artisans.
As an estate-turned-art-gallery, Oshkosh’s Paine Art Center and Gardens is devoted to the visual arts and its gorgeous grounds. The property comes alive even more with the art center’s Festival of Spring, which showcases 100 vendors selling art, handmade crafts and plants.
Summer
Spring Green Arts & Crafts Fair – Spring Green
The Spring Green Arts & Crafts Fair has been going strong for 50 years. A summer standard in the area, 200 artists from around the country will present their masterpieces downtown. Be on the lookout for stunning photography, fiber pieces and sculptures galore.
Art Fair on the Square – Madison
Every July, the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art puts on Art Fair on the Square, an homage to the city’s artistic heritage. For over 62 years, the fair has wowed visitors with its paintings, handmade clothing, jewelry and more. Stroll among the works of 500 artists as you soak up Capitol views.
Bayfield Festival of Arts – Bayfield
Head north to Bayfield’s Lake Superior shores, also known as home to the Festival of Arts and Gallery Tour. Walk around in awe at the juried arts and crafts show, then turn right around and take part in gallery tours and demonstrations.
Stockholm Art Fair – Stockholm
Presented in the heart of Stockholm, the Stockholm Art Fair takes up residence in the picturesque Village Park every summer. Oooh and ahhh at the 105 regional artists with wares on display while you savor local fare and enjoy the live music.
Fall
Holy Hill Arts and Crafts Festival – Hubertus
The fall colors should just be emerging as you visit this beloved festival, held at the striking Holy Hill in Hubertus. Listen to the rustling of the leaves as you take in over 230 artists and craftspeople displaying their wares.
Warrens Cranberry Festival – Warrens
Warrens Cranberry Festival is known for—well—cranberries, of course. But did you know it also has 850 booths filled with sculptures and artwork, 350 booths brimming with antiques and 100 booths devoted to fall produce? Better plan a whole day—or two—for shopping.
Prime Choice Craft Show – Minocqua
Affiliated with Minocqua’s venerated Beef-A-Rama event, the Prime Choice Craft Fair is best browsed with a roast beef sandwich in hand. After getting your fill of food, head to Torpy Park to view the works of over 70 artisans and crafters.
From the Land Festival – Green Lake
For treasures that look as if they’re from another era, make a stop at Green Lake’s From the Land Festival. See demonstrations, listen to live music and pick up handmade baskets, pottery, candles and wood furniture to take home.
