Akron Art Expo 2026

The Akron Arts Expo is a nationally recognized juried fine arts and fine crafts show with over 100 artists, featuring ribbon and cash awards, food, interactive children's activities, and entertainment. The show is located at Hardesty Park, 1615 W. Market St., Akron, Ohio.

Applications are accepted online from February 1 through March 31, 2026 (EST). The application fee is $10.00 (non-refundable). Acceptance/rejection notices will be emailed by May 1, 2026, with booth numbers assigned by June 17, 2026. Booth fees are $225 if paid before May 20, 2026; $240 after that date. All booth fees must be paid by June 1, 2026. The event runs July 25-26, 2026, with judging beginning Saturday, July 25 at 11:00 AM.

Artists may submit up to 2 applications and must provide 5 images (a booth shot is required). All work must be original and completely finished, with at least 60% originals and 40% reproductions permitted. Work produced with commercial kits, molds, patterns, prefabricated forms, or craft kits will not be permitted. The artist who designs the work must be the principal of the business and present at the show with picture ID; no dealers or sales representatives are allowed. Artists choose from four categories: Ornamental (jewelry, ceramics, glass, metalsmithing), 2-Dimensional (drawing, painting, photography), Functional (ceramics, fiber, leather, wood), and 3-Dimensional (metal, sculpture, wood, mixed media). Jurying is blind, with each juror scoring independently based on originality, execution, creativity, design, workmanship/quality, display of media, and category representation. Booth spaces are 14 x 15 feet. Amenities include artist breakfast on Saturday and Sunday, free onsite parking, 24-hour security during setup and show, and booth sitters. Vehicles are allowed for load-in/out (weather permitting) but not permitted in artist areas after 7:00 pm Friday or during show hours Saturday and Sunday. Contact: 330-375-2806.