Activities and Events > Entertainment and Events > Fairhope Arts and Crafts Festival
Downtown, Fairhope, Alabama 36532
The 2024 Fairhope Arts and Crafts Festival is scheduled to take place Friday, March 15 through Sunday, March 17. It is one of Fairhope’s largest and most visited annual events. This exciting event is free to the public and takes place the third weekend in March, Friday through Sunday, 10:00am – 5:00pm.
Over 200 artisans take to the streets of downtown Fairhope to showcase and sell their best works. These exhibits display a wide variety of mediums including fibers and leathers, functional crafts, graphics and drawings, watercolor, mixed media, painting, photography, jewelry, pottery and ceramics, sculpture, wood, and glass.
With many awards to be had, this juried art show will award one talented artisan with the prestigious “Best of Show” award. Other awards include the “Chairman’s Award,” Chamber Award, and a variety of awards based on the artists medium. A special way visitors can contribute to the awards process is by picking up a “Patron Award.” These orange ribbons are a great way to show your support for a specific artist in the festival as well as the arts and crafts community in Fairhope, Alabama.
The ribbons require a $100 commitment to a specific artist at the festival. Once picked up, you may present the ribbon to the artist to place in their booth. Patron award participants are also invited to dine with their favorite artist at a special breakfast on Saturday, before the festival begins. You can view more information regarding the Patron Award here.
Fun for even the youngest participants, children will enjoy visiting the Kids Art Tent on South Church Street, close to the Fairhoper’s Community Park. Arts and crafts projects are scheduled throughout the day and include a variety of activities including face painting, crayon rubbings, modeling clay projects, bird house making, Bricks 4 Kids, and art with local Fairhope artist, Ricky Trione.
The Kids Art Tent is open from 10:00am to 4:00pm each day. Stop by early to see the schedule of events for that particular day. Come back to participate in your child’s favorite creative activity or drop by throughout the day to partake in all the fun.
Check out our Upcoming Events page to see what else is happening during your visit to the Fairhope Arts and Crafts Festival!
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A festival for every season. An attraction for every personality. A restaurant for every palate. There’s always a reason to visit Fairhope, Alabama. Check rates at local hotels, luxury resorts, charming bed and breakfasts, cozy cottages, and downtown vacation rentals to make your next vacation the best yet.
The Fairhope Arts and Crafts Festival takes place on the streets of downtown Fairhope including Fairhope Avenue, South Section Street, North Church Street, and De La Mare Avenue.
Directions from the interstate to the parking garage in downtown Fairhope, Alabama.
Take exit 35A for US-98 (.2 miles)
Turn right onto US-98 E / AL-42 E towards Daphne / Fairhope (7.4 miles)
Take slight right onto Veterans Drive (1.9 miles)
Turn right onto Oak Avenue (0.1 miles)
Turn left onto North Church Street (0.2 miles)
Entrance to the parking garage will be on your left.
Public parking is available at no cost on the streets of downtown Fairhope on a first come first serve basis. A public parking garage is available behind the Hampton Inn off of North Church Street. There is also a small parking lot behind Julwin’s Restaurant off of North Bancroft Street and a larger parking lot on the north side of Fairhoper’s Community Park on South Church Street. Handicap parking is available at these locations, but be advised that downtown parking is limited during special events. Some churches will also allow parking at its facilities for a small cash donation.
To ensure you have the best time at the Fairhope Arts and Crafts Festival, please be aware of all “No Parking” signs, “Handicap Only Parking,” or blocking of driveways or businesses. Violators will be towed at the owner’s expense.
Shuttle service will be available from 9:45am to 5:30pm. The cost is $5 per person for unlimited traveling for that day. The shuttle will be located at the Fairhope Recreation Center. Parking at the recreation center is free.
Fairhope has a wide variety of hotel and lodging options to make your visit to the Fairhope Arts and Crafts Festival an exceptional time. Whether you are looking for something conveniently located within walking distance of downtown Fairhope or something more intimate with an amazing bay view, we have an accommodation to suit your every need. Be our guest at one of the local bed and breakfasts or check out one of the many cottage and vacation rentals for the ultimate in space and privacy.
If you prefer to stay at a hotel, the Hampton Inn is popular for its downtown location. From the lobby doors, you will be welcomed with the sights and sounds of the festival. Enjoy some of Fairhope’s finest boutiques and restaurants, all within walking distance from the hotel.
For a more relaxing getaway, The Grand Hotel Resort and Spa is the epitome of southern hospitality and charm. With picturesque views of Mobile Bay, several on-site restaurants, a luxurious spa, fitness center, and pool, it is the ideal spot to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and relax after a fun day at the art festival. Shuttle service is available from the resort to downtown Fairhope and back to the resort. The concierge in the front lobby will have the departure times and availability for the shuttle.
Please note, the Fairhope Arts and Crafts Festival is one of Fairhope’s most popular events. To ensure your reservation at your ideal location, it is encouraged to book early.
A food court with a variety of vendors will be setup at the event offering standard festival-fare items such as corn dogs, fries, and funnel cakes, as well as southern staples such as BBQ and more.
Fairhope is known for its delicious eateries and these casual dining spots will be ready to serve during the festival. For lunch, there is also a wonderful selection of sandwich shops and delis offering both traditional options and menu items with a unique flare. For dinner, make reservations at one of these outstanding fine dining restaurants for a delightful meal featuring locally sourced ingredients, fresh Gulf seafood, and prime steaks.
Let the love of art continue at the Outdoor Art Show. Hosted by the Eastern Shore Art Center, this independent event features additional artists and exhibits for the public to enjoy in conjunction with the Fairhope Arts and Crafts Festival. Located on the grounds of the ESAC and the surrounding area, visitors will have the opportunity to view live art demos by local artists and art center instructors. For more information about the Outdoor Art Show, visit the Eastern Shore Art Center website.