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We prefer electronic submissions through Juried Art Services. Online applications simplify the process for our volunteer jurists.
Laudholm Nature Crafts Festival
Always the weekend after Labor Day
This juried event brings 120 artisans and thousands of shoppers to our beautiful seaside location every September.
About the Festival
The Laudholm Nature Crafts Festival is held in Wells, Maine, every September on the weekend after Labor Day. This prestigious event brings many of New England's finest craftspeople and artisans, selected by jury, to exhibit their wares for thousands of browsers. Music and food round out the 2-day festival.
Upcoming Shows
September 7-8, 2019
September 12-13, 2020
September 11-12, 2021
How to Apply
- Application materials were posted January 16, 2019.
- The application deadline is March 15, 2019.
- Late applications will be accepted (with payment of a late fee) if received by March 22, 2019.
- Notifications will be made in writing by April 12, 2019. Please refrain from contacting us about the status of your application until after that date.
Download an Application
We accept mailed applications for a higher application fee. We recommend you review the information below and our Helpful Information & Tips sheet.
If you sell food or health & beauty products, please use the Specialty Artisan application form.
Timeline
We are always looking for new and exciting works to keep the festival fresh. Whether you are a returning artist or applying for the first time, this is our timeline.
- January: Applications available
- March: Jury makes selections (accepted and alternates) and notifies applicants
- May: Commitment/payment due from accepted artists
- August: Final detail letter mailed to participating artists
- Weekend after Labor Day: Friday set-up, Saturday and Sunday show
Why This Festival?
- The ambience is professional vitality and country warmth
- More than 4,000 attendees over 2 days
- Since 1988 — One of the longest-running juried craft festivals in Maine
- A short drive from the Kennebunks and Ogunquit on Southern Maine's "gold coast"
- Professional buyers from Portland, Portsmouth, Boston, and New York
- Low application fee
Jurying Criteria
- Nature Theme — The world of nature is a unifying theme, though crafts that are not conducive to reflecting the theme will not be automatically excluded
- Quality — Workmanship should be exemplary. The applicant should be the primary creator.
- Originality — Unique design and technique
- Booth Setup — An attractive display with multi-level presentation, floor-length table coverings, screening from neighboring booths, and a sign with the artist or business name
Useful Tips
Sign up for our Artisan's Alert
We'll send important announcements a few times each year.