Snake Alley Art Fair 2026

The Art Center of Burlington presents its 59th Annual Snake Alley Art Fair on June 21, 2026 from 9AM-4PM. This day-long fine arts fair is the largest event of its kind in the region since 1967, taking place in the Heritage Hill Historic District of Burlington, Iowa. The fair features over 70 art exhibitors, live music, family activities, and food vendors. Artists set up on level streets in the beautiful Heritage Hill Historic District above Snake Alley, which was constructed in 1894 and declared by Ripley's Believe It or Not as one of the most unbelievable spots in America.

Artists may submit applications in the following media categories: 2D (graphite, charcoal, chalk, pastels, wax crayon, inks, washes, photography, and collages), 3D Functional (wearable fiber or wood furniture), 3D Non-Functional (sculptures made from wood, glass, clay, metal), Painting (oils, acrylics, watercolor, egg tempera, etc.), and Jewelry. To sell more than one medium, separate applications are required for each medium. The jury will judge based upon originality, design and composition, creativity, quality, and craftsmanship. There will be 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place awards for each category. Artists with little or no show experience may qualify for the Emerging Artists section.

Applications are due March 15, 2026. The application fee is $20 (non-refundable). Booth spaces are 10 feet deep x 12 feet wide, with fees of $125 for Art Center members and $150 for non-members. Artists must submit five high-quality images (four representing their body of work and one booth shot) and an artist statement. All artwork must be original work of the individual displaying it. AI-generated artwork is not permitted, though limited use of AI tools may be acceptable when used as part of a broader creative process; all AI use must be disclosed. Ceramics from commercial molds, commercially fabricated jewelry, items from kits, copies of others' paintings, mass-produced items, and decorated wholesale items are not eligible. Artists retain 100% of their sales and are responsible for collecting and reporting applicable sales taxes (7% total: 6% state and 1% local). Artists must provide their own display materials including canopies and tables. Electricity is not available. Setup is between 6am and 8:30am on the day of the fair, and artists must be present at their booths during public hours (9am-4pm). Complimentary breakfast pastries, coffee, water, booth sitting, and a pre-party the night before are provided.