Finding top craft shows is like embarking on a treasure hunt, where every booth holds the potential for a one-of-a-kind gem. Craft festivals are the ideal place to discover unique handmade treasures, show off your own works, or immerse yourself in a world of artistic inspiration.
Are you ready to enter a colorful world?
Our tips will guide you on uncovering the best local craft shows around you, and what’s more interesting is that you can stream these shows from the comfort of your own home!
What is a Craft Show?
A craft show is an event where artisans and crafters display and sell their handmade goods. These events can range from small local fairs to large-scale exhibitions showcasing items like jewelry, pottery, paintings, textiles, and more. For both buyers and sellers, craft shows offer a platform to appreciate and promote creativity, as well as a chance to meet like-minded individuals.
Tips on Discovering Top Craft Shows
1. Utilize Online Resources
When it comes to finding local craft shows, the internet is your best friend . Here are some key online resources to help you locate events nearby:
- Event Hubs
Laparizone is a powerful event discovery and streaming platform that brings craft shows and other events closer to you. With its user-friendly interface, this event hub enables attendees to browse upcoming craft shows, join virtual events, and even stream events directly from the platform, making it easier than ever to participate in craft fairs no matter where you are.
To stream your best craft show, simply sign up or create a user account on Laparizone, and enter “craft shows near me” into the search bar, filter by date and location, and start watching your best show.
- Social Media
Platforms like Facebook and Instagram are fantastic for discovering craft shows. Follow local craft groups, artists, or venues that regularly host events. Facebook Events often provide comprehensive details, including dates, venue addresses, and event updates. Instagram hashtags such as #CraftShow and #HandmadeMarket are also great tools for finding events and connecting with artisans.
- Local Arts and Craft Blogs
Many bloggers focus on the arts and crafts scene in specific regions. Searching for craft blogs in your area can yield valuable information on upcoming fairs, including interviews with artisans and previews of featured items. These blogs often provide insider knowledge on hidden gems and unique shows that may not be heavily advertised.
- Community Calendars
Don’t overlook your local community center or city’s event calendar. Many communities maintain event boards that list upcoming craft shows, fairs, and artisans’ markets. These are often updated regularly, making them a reliable resource for staying informed about local events.
- Vendor Websites
Many craft shows have their own websites where they provide detailed information about upcoming events, including dates, locations, and vendor applications. Regularly visiting these websites helps you stay informed about events happening throughout the year.
- Online Marketplaces
Etsy, a popular online marketplace for handmade items, sometimes announces local craft shows. Check their events section to discover where your favorite Etsy sellers will be showcasing their work. Many artisans use Etsy to promote their upcoming in-person or virtual events.
2. Networking and Community Engagement
Engaging with your local crafting community is another excellent way to discover craft shows. Building relationships with fellow artists and enthusiasts can provide you with valuable leads and insider knowledge about upcoming events.
- Local Art Colleges and Studios
Reach out to local art colleges or studios, which often host craft fairs to showcase student and instructor work. By developing connections in the local art scene, you can get firsthand information about upcoming events. Many colleges have bulletin boards or newsletters with event listings, providing a fantastic resource for discovering craft shows.
- Join Craft Clubs and Groups
Becoming part of local craft clubs or community groups can significantly expand your network. Members frequently share information about local events, artisans, and craft fairs, offering you reliable suggestions. You can find these groups on social media platforms like Facebook or by searching for crafting meetups in your area.
- Attend Art and Craft Workshops
Participating in workshops not only helps you improve your crafting skills but also introduces you to other crafters and event organizers. Many workshops provide information about upcoming craft fairs and markets, allowing you to hear about events directly from active participants in the crafting community.
- Volunteer at Craft Shows
Volunteering at craft shows can provide an insider’s perspective on the event dynamics. You’ll meet vendors and crafters, hear about future events, and develop relationships that may lead to collaboration opportunities. Additionally, volunteering allows you to be part of the behind-the-scenes process, giving you a deeper understanding of how these events are organized.
Visit Farmers’ Markets
Many craft artists sell their work at farmers’ markets. Regularly visiting these markets will introduce you to local artisans, and you may learn about upcoming craft shows where they will be participating. Farmers’ markets often feature bulletin boards with flyers promoting local craft fairs and other events.
