Apply Online
We prefer electronic submissions through Juried Art Services. Online applications save you time and money. They also make the jurying process easier for our volunteers.
Laudholm Nature Crafts Festival
Always the weekend after Labor Day
This juried event brings 135+ exhibitors and thousands of shoppers to our beautiful seaside venue.
The Laudholm campus of the Wells Reserve is a picture-perfect spot for a gathering of outstanding artisans and craftspeople. It's a welcoming place with friendly people and room to roam.
About the Festival
The Laudholm Nature Crafts Festival is held in Wells, Maine, on the weekend after Labor Day. This prestigious event brings many of New England's finest exhibitors, selected by jury, to display their wares for thousands of browsers. Music and local food round out the 2-day festival.
Upcoming Shows
September 9-10, 2023 (35th)
September 7-8, 2024
How to Apply
- Application materials were posted January 23, 2023. Online applications are preferred. Apply online.
- Review helpful information.
- The application deadline is March 20, 2023.
- Late applications will be accepted (with payment of a $50 late fee) if postmarked by March 30, 2023.
- Application fees are non-refundable.
- Notifications will be made in writing by April 14, 2023. 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.
If you sell food or health & beauty products, please use the Specialty Vendor application form.
If you choose to submit a paper application, we strongly recommend making a copy for your records before mailing it in.
For Prospective Exhibitors
Annual 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 in the middle of the month
- March: Jury makes selections (accepted and alternates)
- April: Applicants notified of jury decisions
- 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
- Often 5,000 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
- Q&A: Why was I not accepted?
Sign up for our Artisan's Alert
We'll send important announcements a few times each year.