Columbus Winterfair 2026

Overview

Columbus Winterfair is celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2026 as one of Columbus's best art-filled holiday traditions. Consistently ranked in the top ten juried fine art and craft shows by Sunshine Artist magazine, the fair draws nearly 16,000 loyal shoppers. It's presented by Ohio Designer Craftsmen, a nonprofit dedicated to promoting fine craft for over 60 years.

Key Dates

• Application deadline: Wednesday, July 1, 2026
• Notification email: Tuesday, July 21, 2026
• Accept invitation and purchase booth deadline: Friday, August 28, 2026
• Setup information emailed: October 27, 2026
• Artist setup: Thursday, December 3, 2026, 9AM–8PM
• Show dates: Friday, December 4 – Sunday, December 6, 2026
• Friday & Saturday hours: 10AM–7PM; Sunday hours: 11AM–4PM
• Cancellation refund deadline: September 11, 2026 (less $75 administrative fee)

Eligibility & Requirements

Anyone may apply. If accepted, Ohio Designer Craftsmen membership is required ($35 individual, $45 joint; may be paid after acceptance). All work must be original and made by the artist.

Application & Jury

Submit 4 images of your work and 1 booth shot (full view of booth with no identifying signs or signatures). Images are reviewed anonymously by a panel of art professionals including artists, gallery/museum directors, and art fair directors. Selection is based on quality, presentation, originality, and booth display. Judges' decisions are final. Up to 10% of spaces may be filled at the executive director's discretion to introduce new artists.

Fees & Booth Details

• $35 non-refundable application fee
• Every artist booth receives a FREE corner space (worth $120)
• Electricity included free
• White back panel drapery provided
• Discounted group hotel rates available

Artist Amenities

• Experienced, knowledgeable staff
• Volunteers for booth sitting all three days
• 24-hour security beginning 6PM Thursday through 8PM Sunday
• Easy load-in/load-out
• White back panel drapery provided

Awards

• Six Artist Awards of Excellence
• One Award for Best Artist Booth

Gourmet Marketplace

Open to pre-packaged food items (salsa, teas, coffee, cakes, cookies, bread, jerky, cheese, olive oils, vinegars, etc.), bath and body products, candles, and pet products made by your business. Vendors must comply with State of Ohio Health Department and Ohio Expo Center regulations. Membership is not required for Gourmet Marketplace exhibitors. Booths are not guaranteed a free corner.

Emerging Artist Program

• Must be relatively new to juried art fairs with little show experience
• Must attend setup day (December 3) and all three show days during all show hours
• Sell work in ONE medium category only
• Pay for parking all 3 days
• Provide table covering, extension cord, power strip, lighting, and artwork display; ODC furnishes area, white back curtain, electricity, table (if requested), and chair
• 2-D Mixed Media or Oils & Acrylics must provide way to hang work with mesh walls or ProPanels
• Must accept credit cards and write receipts including sales tax
• Current Ohio Vendors License required
• Business cards, gift boxes, and bags recommended
• Help ODC staff take down and pack decorations on Sunday after booth breakdown
• $35 jury fee

Contact Information

• Roxanne McGovern, Fairs Coordinator
• Phone: 614-486-7119
• Email: [email protected]
• Website: www.ohiocraft.org / Winterfair.org