Kalamazoo Institute of Arts Fair 2026

The 75th Annual Kalamazoo Institute of Arts Fair is a two-day juried art show featuring up to 145 fine artists. Staged in shady, historic Bronson Park in downtown Kalamazoo, this outdoor Arts Fair is acclaimed for its friendly atmosphere and large crowds of arts patrons from across Michigan and beyond. The fair offers many artist amenities, $4,500+ in awards and prizes, and is supported by far-reaching promotional measures attracting crowds of 17,000+. The KIA Arts Fair also features live music, food trucks, family activities and artist demonstrations to draw visitors in.

The fair takes place Friday, June 5, 2026 from 3pm-8pm and Saturday, June 6, 2026 from 9am-5pm. Artists must apply through ZAPPlication.org with a $45 non-refundable application fee by January 30, 2026. Four digital images are required: three images of work in a single medium category and one booth shot. The fair features 12 distinct medium categories including 2-D Mixed Media, 3-D Mixed Media, Ceramics, Drawing/Pastels/Prints, Fiber/Leather, Glass, Jewelry (Non-Precious and Precious), Metal/Sculpture, Painting, Photography/Digital Media, and Wood.

Awards include up to 12 category awards and a People's Choice Award, each with a $375 cash prize, waived application fee for the following year, and assured entry into the 2027 fair. Artists retain 100% of their sales and are responsible for collecting applicable sales tax. The fair provides free artist parking and shuttles, booth sitters, and artist-focused hospitality throughout the event.