Carefree Fine Art & Wine Festival - 33rd Annual - Winter 2026 - Thunderbird Artists

This award-winning Winter Carefree Fine Art & Wine Festival celebrates 33 years and is one of three of the town of Carefree's official 'Signature Events!' Produced by Thunderbird Artists and in conjunction with the 501c3 Imprints of Honor (formerly Veteran's Heritage Project), downtown Carefree transforms into a world class fine art arena for three days. Carefree is nestled in the foothills of the Sonoran desert, bordering Scottsdale to the north. Easy and HoHum Streets of Downtown Carefree are closed, making room for 150 world class artists. Well established as a collector's show, this festival draws a qualified, knowledgeable and very affluent clientele who enjoy the finer things in life.

All work must be original, handcrafted, created and exhibited by the artist. No open-ended edition prints permitted. At least 65% of displayed work must be original art. Kits, imports and mass produced items are prohibited. No clothing, hobby or bazaar type articles. All categories must be juried prior to acceptance. Application deadline is July 16, 2025, with notification on July 30, 2025. Artists must accept or decline invitation by August 30, 2025.

Marketing/space fees include Carefree vendor permit fees and range from $545 for a 10' x 10' space to $1135 for a 10' x 20' corner space. All tents must be solid white and flame retardant. Artists must provide their own weighted, sturdy display and acquire proper state and city tax licenses. Refunds are available until December 5th, 2025 (minus a $35 cancellation fee). The festival closes at 5pm and artists may participate in wine tasting after 4pm.