Lazy Daze Arts & Crafts Festival 2026

For nearly half a century, the Lazy Daze Arts & Crafts Festival has welcomed visitors from near and far to the heart of downtown Cary, North Carolina, for two days filled with art, entertainment, food, and incredible experiences. First held in 1977, this juried arts and crafts festival celebrates the "lazy days" of summer on the last weekend of August, showcasing nearly 300 artists from across the United States. Guests can enjoy a vibrant mix of experiences, including a beer garden, interactive art activities, Kid Daze fun, and live demonstrations by skilled artisans. Lazy Daze continues to be recognized as one of the nation's top contemporary craft festivals, drawing over 50,000 art lovers each year to Cary's Town Hall Campus.

The festival takes place Saturday, August 22 and Sunday, August 23, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days. Applications are due February 28, 2026 (midnight EST), with late applications accepted until March 6, 2026. Artists may apply in up to three categories with a $30 non-refundable application fee per category. Five images are required for each application, including four individual work pieces and one outdoor booth display image. Artist amenities include on-site parking, RV parking, artist hospitality, lunch program, 24-hour security, booth sitters, and Jerry Miller Awards for seven artists.

The Lazy Daze Arts & Crafts Festival exists to enrich the community, strengthen Cary's cultural identity, and foster civic pride through the celebration of visual and performing arts. Festival proceeds support the continued production of this beloved event and fund the Lazy Daze Grant Program, which benefits local nonprofit arts organizations. As Cary's largest annual event, Lazy Daze is free and open to all—a true celebration of creativity and community.