Ohio Mart 2026

The Auxiliary Board of Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens invites applications for its 59th annual Ohio Mart, northeast Ohio's premier invitational show of Arts and Fine Crafts. Ohio Mart is a four-day outdoor event held under large tents on the historic grounds of Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens in Akron, Ohio, featuring over 140 juried artists, entertainment, food vendors, and stitchery displays. The event attracts an average of 16,000 attendees annually. In 2025, the event drew over 17,000 attendees with exhibitor sales exceeding $1 million for the first time, representing a 16% increase over 2024, and 95% of exhibitors reported that Ohio Mart met or exceeded their expectations.

All work must be original design and handcrafted by the artist(s). No buy-to-sell items are allowed. Unacceptable items include work created by others, greenware pottery, sculpture from molds, mass-produced jewelry, and factory art. Commercially produced parts may be used only in a subordinate role and may not be sold separately. The artist(s) must attend all four days of the event, open to close. Booth options range from $600 to $1,200 depending on size and location. Electricity is provided for inside booths. Booth fees are due within 30 days of acceptance, with a $50 late fee assessed for late payments. Cancellations prior to August 1st receive a 50% refund of booth fees; no refunds are issued for cancellations on or after August 1st. Application and table/chair rental fees are non-refundable.

Applications require a $45 non-refundable application fee ($35 early bird through February 15, 2026) and a minimum of six photos: four individual images of work with descriptions and prices, one photo of current booth setup, and one or more work-in-process photos with the artist's face clearly shown. All required photos must be submitted or the application will not be considered. The application deadline is March 15, 2026; applications received after this date will be juried on an as-needed basis. Successful applicants will be notified no later than May 1, 2026. Five cash prizes are awarded: Gertrude Seiberling Best in Show Award ($500), Stan Hywet Award of Excellence ($200), F.A. Seiberling Innovation Award ($100), Charles Schneider Best Original Design Award ($100), and Hugo Huber Best Booth Presentation Award ($100). Event dates are October 1-4, 2026, with setup on September 29-30. Proceeds benefit Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, the nation's sixth largest non-profit historic home open to the public.