This is the rare craft fair where the jury actually bites: hundreds of exhibitors across more than ten media categories, selling work they made themselves rather than imported stock. Live demonstrations run through the day, so you watch pieces being thrown, blown and joined instead of just priced. And it sits in the Hudson Valley on the one long weekend of late summer, with regional wine, cider and beer poured on the grounds.
What to expect
Tented rows spread across the fairgrounds and grouped by medium, with makers standing behind their own tables and generally willing to talk process. Demonstration areas run through the day, a children's activity zone keeps kids busy, and a food-and-drink section pours Hudson Valley wine, cider and craft beer. Expect thick crowds by mid-afternoon and grass underfoot the whole way.
Good to know
- The fair is at the Ulster County Fairgrounds on Libertyville Road, a couple of miles outside the village of New Paltz.
- Adirondack Trailways runs frequent buses from Port Authority to the New Paltz stop by SUNY New Paltz in about an hour and a half; the last stretch to the fairgrounds needs a taxi or rideshare.
- The gate is cash only, though there is an ATM on the grounds.
- Parking on the fairgrounds is free and plentiful for anyone driving up.
- It runs rain or shine and the grounds are grass, so wear shoes you do not mind muddying.
- Children under twelve get in free, which makes it an easy multi-generation day.
Get Saturday planned every Thursday
One email a week — the best of the NYC weekend board. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.
Common questions
Can I get there without a car?
Mostly. Adirondack Trailways runs frequent buses from Port Authority to New Paltz in roughly an hour and a half, dropping near SUNY New Paltz. The fairgrounds are a couple of miles further out on Libertyville Road, so budget a taxi or rideshare for the last leg in each direction.
Is there an admission charge?
Yes. Adults and seniors pay at the gate and children under twelve are free. The gate takes cash only, but there is an ATM on the grounds.
What kind of work is actually sold?
Juried handmade work across more than ten media categories, including ceramics, glass, jewelry, fiber, wood and furniture, photography and printmaking. Exhibitors apply and are selected, so the floor is original work rather than resale.
