Naperville Woman’s Club 64th Fine Art and Artisan Fair

Step into a world of creativity and community at the 64th Annual Naperville Fine Art & Artisan Fair, an extraordinary celebration of the visual arts hosted by the historic Naperville Woman’s Club. Held on the picturesque grounds of Naper Settlement, this event stands as the longest continuously running art fair in the state of Illinois, offering a unique blend of heritage and contemporary artistic expression. For over six decades, this fair has served as a cornerstone of the Naperville summer season, attracting art enthusiasts, collectors, and families from across the Chicagoland area to the heart of downtown Naperville.

The 64th edition of the fair continues this proud tradition, featuring more than 120 qualified, juried artists from across the country. Visitors will find a vast array of high-caliber work spanning numerous disciplines, including oil and watercolor painting, photography, digital art, ceramics, fine jewelry, glasswork, fiber arts, and sculpture. Each artist is carefully selected by a professional jury, ensuring that every booth offers original, high-quality pieces that represent the best of modern craftsmanship. Whether you are looking for a statement piece for your home or a unique, handcrafted gift, the fair provides an intimate setting to meet the creators and learn about the inspiration behind their work.

Beyond the art, the fair is a vibrant festival with activities designed to engage the whole family. A highlight of the weekend is the community mural project, a collaborative effort where attendees of all ages are invited to pick up a brush and contribute to a large-scale masterpiece that evolves over the two-day event. For the youngest visitors, the ‘Petite Picasso’ area offers a dedicated space for hands-on crafts and activities, fostering a love for art in the next generation. The atmosphere is further enhanced by live musical performances featuring talented local musicians, providing a melodic backdrop as you stroll through the 13-acre outdoor history museum of Naper Settlement.

One of the most meaningful aspects of the Naperville Woman’s Club Fine Art & Artisan Fair is its commitment to philanthropy. The club, founded in 1897, uses the fair as a primary fundraiser to support its mission of community improvement. A staple of the event is the ‘Empty Bowls’ booth, where local ceramic artists donate handcrafted bowls. For a modest donation, visitors can enjoy a bowl of soup and take the ceramic piece home, with all proceeds going directly to local food pantries. Additionally, the fair’s silent auction features donated works from participating artists, with funds raised supporting local scholarships and social service agencies.

Located just a block from Naperville’s bustling downtown shopping and dining district, the fair offers the perfect centerpiece for a weekend outing. Admission to Naper Settlement is free during the fair, allowing visitors to explore the historic buildings and lush landscapes while enjoying the festival. Food and beverage vendors are available on-site, offering a variety of gourmet treats to keep you energized. Join us for this 64-year-old tradition and experience the spirit of Naperville through the eyes of its most talented artists and the dedicated volunteers of the Naperville Woman’s Club.