Art festivals have always been a great source for networking, building a fan base, and selling your artwork.
Social media is great, but it’s nothing like getting yourself in the hot sun and socializing with potential customers. Cities like Chicago, Naperville, and Evanston are big patrons of the fine arts. Unfortunately, the number of art shows has reduced since 2020, but I have 5 art and craft shows you can check out for 2026.
Riverside Arts Weekend
Deadline: February 15, 2026
Artist size: 50
June 10 -11, 9 am-5 pm
Guthrie Park
28 Bloomington Road
Riverside, IL 60546
Riverside Arts Weekend is being held at Guthrie Park in Riverside, Illinois. The event will feature local and statewide artists. Enjoy the food, the live music, and the activities for your children.
66th Naperville Women’s Club Fine Arts Artisan Fair
Deadline: January 23, 2026
Artist size: 100
June 27 and 28, 9 am – 5 pm
Downtown Naperville
523 W. Webster
Naperville, IL, 60565
Naperville Woman’s Club Fine Art Fair is being held at the Naper Settlement, or downtown Naperville. This event is free to the public. Don’t forget to check out the live and local music and participate in the family activities for everyone to enjoy!
Expo Chicago
Deadline: January 8th, 2026
Artist size: 170
April 9-12, 9 am – 7 pm
Navy Pier
600 E. Grand Ave.
Chicago, IL 60611
Expo Chicago is being held at the Navy Pier in Chicago. The event will display some home-grown artists and those abroad. Navy Pier is a beautiful place to visit during the early spring months, so come out and enjoy some fine art!
Old Town Art Fair
Deadline: January 15, 2026
Artist Size: 200
June 13 – 14, 9 am – 6 pm
Chicago Old Town Triangle neighborhood.
1763 N. North Park Ave.
Chicago, IL 60614
Old Town Fair is being held in Chicago’s Old Town Triangle neighborhood. The event has attracted some of the best talent across the country for over 75 years. Come for the food and stay for the art!
One-of-a-Kind Spring Show
Deadline: January 9, 2026
Artist size: 350
April 24-26, 10 am – 5 pm
The Mart
222 Merchandise Mart
Plaza – 7th Floor
Chicago, IL 60654
One-of-a-Kind Spring Show is being held at the Historic Merchandise Mart in Chicago. A great event for art enthusiasts who enjoy ceramics, homemade jewelry, Fiber, glass, wood, and mixed- media art. Invite a friend and explore the galleries. You never know, you might find a few gems!
If you miss the submission deadline, don’t fret. You can still visit the events and enjoy the festivities. In the world of art, there are no losers!
A Shade of Art 
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