2026 Art Shows: Fairs and Art Festivals to Explore a World of Creativity

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Outdoor Places to GoArt

Imagine a warm summer day spent wandering through your local downtown that are lined with booths filled with one-of-a-kind masterpieces. Support local artisans at these art shows in 2026. These 2026 art shows are the perfect way to support talented local artisans while enjoying a lively atmosphere filled with unique artwork, tasty food, live music, and plenty more to explore.

While some of these events are geared more towards adults, you can usually find interactive kids areas and hands-on fun to get your child’s creativity flowing, too. Purchase a new piece for your home, sample a new treat, and connect with local artisans at one of these art fairs and festivals near you.

Please be sure to confirm all dates and times before attending. Also be aware that plans for children’s areas, food/drink, and live entertainment may change depending on permits and restrictions.

This guide is sponsored by Elmhurst Art Museum.

Art in Wilder Park

May 2, 2026 | 10:00am – 5:00pm
daily, until May 4, 2026
Wilder Park, 175 S Prospect Ave, Elmhurst, IL 60126

The 29th annual Art in Wilder Park festival returns to Elmhurst on the first weekend of May, kicking off the Spring festival season. The free two-day event attracts thousands of visitors each year with over 100 booths of one-of-a-kind art, food, and child-friendly activities. This year’s festival will also feature Near Eternity, a public art installation by sculptor Jeremiah Hulsebos-Spofford. Art in Wilder Park takes place on May 2nd and 3rd, from 10 am to 5pm, at 175 S. Cottage Hill Ave in Elmhurst.

Festival goers will also have the opportunity to visit the Museum for free and see the outstanding artwork in the annual D205 Student Showcase and the Elmhurst Artists’ Guild members show. The D205 exhibition features over 100 young artists from elementary and middle schools around Elmhurst showcasing their work from the 2025-2026 school year. This is the first year the showcase will run concurrently with Art in Wilder Park.

May Art Shows

June Art Shows

July Art Shows

August Art Shows

September Art Shows

Searching for more ways to enjoy art with your kids? Check out these awesome kids art classes!

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