Spring craft fair season is just around the corner, and for thousands of vendors across the country, that means one thing: it's time to get serious about your 2026 show schedule. Whether you're a seasoned vendor or gearing up for your first outdoor fair, the window to apply for the best spring events is closing fast.
Here's everything you need to know about preparing for spring 2026 craft fair season — from finding events and submitting applications to refreshing your booth and inventory.
When Does Spring Craft Fair Season Start?
Depending on your region, spring craft fair season typically runs March through May. In southern states like Georgia, Texas, and Florida, outdoor events can start as early as late February. Northern states like Michigan, Minnesota, and New York tend to kick off in April or May.
The key takeaway? Application deadlines are typically 4-8 weeks before the event. If you want to vend at a March or April fair, many deadlines have already passed or are closing soon. Check our application deadline tracker to see what's still open.
How to Find Spring Craft Fairs Near You
The easiest way to find spring craft fairs is to use a dedicated search tool. On TheCraftMap, you can:
- Browse by season: Our Spring 2026 page lists every spring event in our database
- Filter by state: Visit any state page and filter by date range
- Search by month: Check March, April, or May individually
- Find this weekend's events: Our This Weekend page updates automatically
- Use the map: See what's happening near you geographically
Pro tip: Don't just look at your home state. Some of the best spring shows are within a 2-3 hour drive across state lines. Expand your search radius and you might discover a hidden gem.
Spring 2026 Trends to Watch
Every season brings new trends that influence what sells at craft fairs. Here's what we're seeing heading into spring 2026:
- Eco-friendly products: Reusable, sustainable, and plastic-free items continue to dominate. Think beeswax wraps, refillable candles (tools like WickSuite help candle makers manage costs), natural soaps, and upcycled goods.
- Personalization: Custom and made-to-order products (engraved jewelry, monogrammed items) draw crowds and command premium prices.
- Cottagecore & natural aesthetics: Dried flowers, earthy ceramics, linen textiles, and botanical prints remain strong sellers.
- Pet products: Handmade pet treats, bandanas, and accessories are a growing niche with passionate buyers.
- Local & regional pride: State-themed designs, local landmark art, and "hometown" merchandise sell especially well at community events.
Your Spring Prep Checklist
Use this checklist to make sure you're ready when the season opens. Start now — February and early March are your prep window.
📋 Applications & Planning
- Research and list target fairs for March-May (use TheCraftMap's spring page)
- Check application deadlines and submit early — many fairs fill up fast
- Set a budget for booth fees (track them for tax deductions)
- Review past applications — update product photos if your inventory has changed
- Apply to 2-3x more fairs than you plan to attend (acceptance isn't guaranteed)
🏪 Booth & Display
- Inspect your tent/canopy for damage — replace if needed before the rush
- Test all lighting and extension cords
- Refresh signage and price tags (check out booth display ideas)
- Update business cards with current social media and website
- Practice your full setup — time yourself and optimize for efficiency
- Stock up on bags, tissue paper, and packaging materials
📦 Inventory & Products
- Audit current inventory — what sold well last year? What sat on the shelf?
- Introduce 2-3 new spring-themed products to create buzz
- Review your pricing strategy — account for increased material costs
- Build up stock early — don't wait until the week before your first show
- Create spring-specific bundles or gift sets
💳 Payments & Tech
- Test your card reader and download the latest payment app updates
- Verify your mobile hotspot works (don't rely on event Wi-Fi)
- Set up digital receipts via email
- Prepare a cash float ($50-100 in small bills and coins)
Top States for Spring Craft Fairs
Some states have a particularly strong spring craft fair scene. If you're willing to travel, consider these top destinations:
- Georgia — Cherry blossom festivals, spring market season kicks off in March
- Texas — Huge volume of spring events, especially in the Hill Country and DFW
- North Carolina — Arts-friendly communities with strong spring festival traditions
- Virginia — Historic town spring fairs and garden festivals
- California — Year-round outdoor weather means events start early
- Ohio — Dense craft fair scene with events in nearly every county
- Pennsylvania — Spring awakening brings dozens of fairs from April onward
Browse all states on our state directory.
Common Spring Craft Fair Mistakes
Learn from the mistakes of others so you don't repeat them:
- Waiting too long to apply: The best spring shows have January-February deadlines. Don't procrastinate.
- Skipping weather prep: Spring means rain, wind, and unpredictable temperatures. Bring tent weights, tarps, and layers.
- Under-stocking inventory: Spring buyers are eager after a long winter. Bring more than you think you'll need.
- Ignoring the forecast: Check weather 3-5 days out and adjust your packing list accordingly.
- Not having a rain plan: Waterproof bins, plastic covers for displays, and extra tarps can save your stock.
- Forgetting sunscreen: First sunny days of spring catch people off guard. Protect yourself during long outdoor setups.
Build Your Spring Show Calendar
The most successful vendors plan their season in advance. Here's a simple approach:
- Identify your radius: How far will you drive for a day show? An overnight?
- Pick anchor events: Choose 2-3 "must-do" fairs that you build your schedule around
- Fill in gaps: Add smaller local events between your anchor shows
- Leave buffer weekends: Don't book every single weekend — burnout is real
- Track everything: Use a spreadsheet or your vendor dashboard to manage applications, fees, and results
Start Planning Now
Spring 2026 is shaping up to be a great season for craft vendors. Events are bouncing back, shoppers are eager for handmade goods, and there are more fairs than ever to choose from.
The vendors who succeed are the ones who start early. Don't wait until March to scramble for spots — browse spring 2026 craft fairs on TheCraftMap today, check upcoming deadlines, and get your applications in.
Your best season starts with a plan. Make it happen. 🌸