If you're a craft vendor, not all states are created equal. Some have thriving craft fair scenes with events nearly every weekend, while others are sparse. Here's what we found when we analyzed craft fair data across the US.
States with the Most Craft Fairs
Based on our database of events, these states lead the pack:
1. Texas 🤠
Everything's bigger in Texas, including the craft fair scene. The state's large population, strong culture of local shopping, and year-round good weather make it a hotspot. Major events in Houston, Dallas, Austin, and San Antonio draw huge crowds.
2. California ☀️
California's diverse population and tourism industry create demand for handmade goods. From beachside art festivals to farmers markets, there's always something happening. The Bay Area and Southern California are particularly active.
3. Florida 🌴
Florida's tourism-driven economy and outdoor lifestyle make it perfect for craft fairs. The winter months (peak tourist season) are especially busy, with events throughout the state from Miami to Pensacola.
4. Georgia 🍑
The Southeast has a strong craft culture, and Georgia leads the region. Atlanta's markets draw massive crowds, and smaller towns throughout the state host quality shows. The Atlanta Market is one of the largest wholesale shows in the country.
5. North Carolina 🏔️
From the mountain arts scene in Asheville to coastal craft festivals, North Carolina has a rich artisan tradition. The state actively supports its craft community through organizations and marketing initiatives.
Best States by Region
Northeast
- New York: NYC markets and upstate festivals
- Massachusetts: Strong maker culture in Boston area
- Pennsylvania: Mix of urban markets and rural festivals
Midwest
- Michigan: Art fairs and farmers markets abound
- Ohio: Large population and craft fair tradition
- Wisconsin: Strong local/artisan food and craft scene
South
- Tennessee: Nashville's creative economy + mountain craft tradition
- South Carolina: Tourism-driven coastal markets
- Louisiana: Unique cultural festivals and markets
West
- Colorado: Outdoor lifestyle = strong market for handmade
- Oregon: Portland leads the Pacific Northwest maker scene
- Arizona: Winter craft fair destination (snowbirds!)
What Makes a State Good for Craft Vendors?
Population & Tourism
More people = more potential customers. States with high tourism also benefit from visitors looking for unique souvenirs and local goods.
Weather
States with mild weather have longer craft fair seasons. Texas, Florida, and California can host outdoor events year-round, while northern states are limited to spring-fall.
Culture of Buying Local
Some regions have a stronger "shop local" mentality. The Pacific Northwest, New England, and parts of the South have strong traditions of supporting local artisans.
Event Infrastructure
Established event organizers, active chambers of commerce, and supportive local governments make it easier for craft fairs to thrive.
Tips for Out-of-State Fairs
Thinking about traveling to fairs in other states? Keep these in mind:
- Sales tax: Research the state's sales tax requirements. Some require registration for even one event.
- Clustering: Book multiple fairs in the same region to make travel worthwhile.
- Research the market: What sells in Texas might not sell in Vermont. Adjust your inventory.
- Build relationships: Connect with local vendors who can share insights about the best events.
- Start small: Test a new state with one or two fairs before committing to more.
Find Fairs in Your State
Ready to explore? Use TheCraftMap to filter craft fairs by state. We've got events from all 50 states in our database, with new ones added regularly.
Not finding enough in your state? Consider expanding your range. Sometimes the best fairs are just a short drive across state lines.