February 20-22, 2026 | Your Complete Guide to the East Coast’s Premier Craft Marketplace
For 49 years, American Craft Made Baltimore has been a celebration of extraordinary handcrafted work. This isn’t mass-produced mall merchandise. This isn’t imported factory goods. This is museum-quality craft, created by 400+ juried artists from across the country, all gathered under one roof for one spectacular weekend.
Whether you’re a serious collector, a craft enthusiast, a gift-giver seeking something truly unique, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of handmade art, American Craft Made Baltimore is an experience unlike any other.
Meet the artists. Touch the work. Buy directly from the makers. Take home something extraordinary.
And Harbor Park Garage makes it effortless: $18 all-day parking or $24 overnight for multi-day visits, just a 3-minute walk to the Baltimore Convention Center. Park once, explore for hours, and immerse yourself in the world of American craft.
Let’s explore everything waiting for you at this celebrated Baltimore institution.
Event Details
Dates & Hours
Opening Night Preview – Thursday, February 19, 2026
After-hours special event (ticket required)
- Exclusive early access to the show
- Meet artists and enjoy beverages
- Celebrate marketplace award winners
- First opportunity to purchase before weekend crowds
Friday, February 20, 2026
10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Saturday, February 21, 2026
10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Sunday, February 22, 2026
10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Location
Baltimore Convention Center – Halls A, B, and C
One West Pratt Street
Baltimore, MD 21201
Enter through the Charles Street Lobby
Admission
American Craft Council (ACC) Members:
- Two FREE single-day tickets per day OR
- Two FREE full-weekend tickets
- Discounts on additional tickets beyond the first two
General Admission:
- Single-day tickets available
- Full-weekend passes available
- Children 12 and under FREE with adult
Group Rates: Save up to 50% on single-day admission for groups of 10 or more. Tickets must be purchased in advance. Contact Alaina Clarke at the American Craft Council for information.
Become a Member: If you plan to attend American Craft Made events regularly, ACC membership pays for itself immediately with free tickets and discounts. Visit craftcouncil.org for details.
What is American Craft Made Baltimore?
A Celebrated Local Institution
Now in its 49th year, American Craft Made Baltimore is more than just a craft show — it’s a beloved Baltimore tradition that brings together:
- 400+ juried artists showcasing exceptional work
- 10,000+ attendees over the weekend
- Dozens of local partner organizations
- $10M+ in artist sales since 2022
This is the East Coast’s premier marketplace for handcrafted art, where serious collectors, gift-givers, and craft enthusiasts come together to discover extraordinary work.
The Juried Artist Selection
This isn’t an open craft fair. Every single artist at American Craft Made Baltimore has been juried and selected by a distinguished panel of experts:
2026 Jury Panel:
- Thomas (Tom) Turner – Award-winning jewelry artist and ACC Life Trustee
- Nora Atkinson – Nationally recognized curator and museum leader
- Cedric Mitchell – Los Angeles-based glass artist known for vibrant, captivating work
What does this mean for you? Quality is guaranteed. Every booth, every artist, every piece has been vetted for exceptional craftsmanship, originality, and artistic merit.
What You’ll Experience
Eight Halls of Extraordinary Craft
Jewelry
- Fine metal work in gold, silver, platinum
- Gemstone and precious stone designs
- Contemporary and traditional styles
- Enamel and mixed media jewelry
- Wearable art pieces
Ceramics
- Functional pottery and dinnerware
- Sculptural ceramics
- Porcelain and stoneware
- Raku and pit-fired pieces
- Decorative and utilitarian work
Glass
- Blown glass vessels and sculpture
- Fused and slumped glass
- Stained glass and architectural glass
- Glass jewelry and wearables
- Functional and decorative pieces
Fiber Arts
- Handwoven textiles and tapestries
- Art quilts and wall hangings
- Wearable fiber art and clothing
- Basketry and surface design
- Felted and dyed textiles
Wood
- Fine furniture and functional pieces
- Turned wood bowls and vessels
- Sculptural wood art
- Cutting boards and kitchenware
- Architectural woodwork
Metal
- Forged iron and steel sculpture
- Copper, bronze, and brass work
- Architectural metalwork
- Functional metal art
- Mixed metal pieces
Paper
- Handmade paper art
- Artist books and journals
- Papercuts and collage
- Printed works and editions
- Paper sculpture
Mixed Media
- Multi-material sculpture
- Assemblage and collage art
- Innovative combinations
- Experimental work
- Boundary-pushing pieces
NEW for 2026: Expanded Printmaking Section
Discover extraordinary work by printmakers from around the country alongside other craft mediums. This expanded section showcases:
- Lithography and screen printing
- Relief prints and woodcuts
- Etching and intaglio
- Monoprints and monotypes
- Digital and experimental printing
Artist Booths & Collective Spaces
Traditional Artist Booths: Individual artists showcase their full body of work
NEW: Collective Booths: Groups of makers come together to create, collaborate, and showcase their work under a unified name representing their guild, group, or collective. These shared spaces offer diverse selections from multiple artists.
Why American Craft Made Baltimore is Special
You’re Buying Directly From the Artist
This is the magic of American Craft Made Baltimore. You’re not buying from a store. You’re not buying from a middleman. You’re standing in front of the person who made the piece, talking about their process, hearing their story, and taking home their work.
What This Means:
For Your Purchase:
- Learn the story behind each piece
- Understand the materials and techniques
- Ask questions about care and maintenance
- Request custom work or modifications
- Build a relationship with the artist
For the Artist:
- They receive 100% of the sale (minus show fees)
- You’re directly supporting their livelihood
- Your purchase enables them to continue creating
- Your feedback matters to them
For You:
- Unique pieces you won’t find anywhere else
- Investment-quality work at fair prices
- Personal connection to the art
- Stories to share about your collection
Museum-Quality Work at Fair Prices
The artists at American Craft Made Baltimore create work you’d see in:
- Smithsonian American Art Museum
- Museum of Arts and Design
- Renwick Gallery
- Major craft museums nationwide
But instead of buying through galleries (where prices are marked up 50-100%), you’re buying directly from the artist at fair prices.
Price Ranges (Approximate):
- Jewelry: $50 – $5,000+
- Pottery/Ceramics: $30 – $2,000+
- Glass: $100 – $10,000+
- Fiber Art: $200 – $5,000+
- Wood: $50 – $8,000+
- Metal Sculpture: $500 – $15,000+
- Mixed Media: $100 – $10,000+
You’ll find pieces at every price point, from accessible gifts to significant investment pieces.
One-of-a-Kind & Limited Edition Work
Why This Matters:
Mass Production:
- Thousands of identical pieces
- Available everywhere
- No individual character
- Replaceable
Handcrafted Work:
- Unique or limited edition
- Individual variations make each piece special
- May be the only one ever made
- Irreplaceable
When you buy handcrafted work, you’re not just buying an object. You’re buying the artist’s vision, skill, time, and creativity. You’re buying something with a soul.
Special Events & Programming
Opening Night Preview (Thursday, February 19)
This after-hours event at the Baltimore Convention Center is a unique opportunity to:
- Shop before the weekend crowds
- Meet artists in a relaxed setting
- Enjoy beverages and light bites
- Celebrate marketplace award winners
- Secure pieces before they sell
Who Should Attend:
- Serious collectors who want first pick
- Those hosting artists for dinner after
- Anyone who wants a more intimate experience
- Gift-givers with specific needs
Tickets: Available through American Craft Council
Guided Tours with ACC Leadership
Executive Director Tour Join Andrea Specht, American Craft Council executive director, for a special guided tour showcasing must-see artists. Learn about:
- Emerging artists to watch
- Exceptional techniques and innovations
- Trends in contemporary craft
- Stories behind standout work
Member & Artist Lounge ACC members and exhibiting artists can relax in this exclusive space with refreshments and remarks from Andrea Specht about the future of craft and the American Craft Council.
Private Collector Tour
Get an exclusive peek into a Baltimore-based collector’s private collection. This tour takes place off-site from the Baltimore Convention Center and offers insight into:
- Building a craft collection
- Investment strategies
- Caring for craft art
- Relationships with artists
Artist Demonstrations
Throughout the weekend, watch artists work their craft:
- Live demonstrations of techniques
- Q&A about processes and materials
- See work take shape before your eyes
- Understand the skill and time involved
Hands-On Workshops
Select workshops allow you to try your hand at various techniques. Learn from master craftspeople and discover your own creative potential.
Practical Information
Shipping Concierge Service
NEW for 2026: Charm City Pass provides professional shipping services!
How It Works:
- Purchase your piece from the artist
- Take it to the Shipping Concierge station
- They’ll professionally package and ship it for you
- Your artwork arrives safely at home
Why Use It:
- No carrying large or fragile pieces through the show
- Professional packing ensures safety
- Convenient for out-of-town visitors
- Shop freely without worrying about logistics
- Perfect for glass, ceramics, and large pieces
Cost: Varies by size and destination, but typically reasonable for the peace of mind.
Accessibility
American Craft Made 2026 is fully accessible:
- Wheelchair-accessible entrances and pathways
- Wide aisles between booths
- Accessible restrooms
- Elevators to all exhibit halls
- Service animals welcome
- Assistive listening devices available (inquire at info desk)
Food & Beverage
Inside the Convention Center:
- Food service available
- Coffee and refreshments
- Seating areas for breaks
Within Walking Distance:
- Dozens of Inner Harbor restaurants (3-5 minute walk)
- Harborplace food court (3 minutes)
- Cafes and coffee shops
- Power Plant Live dining options
- Quick lunch at nearby chains
Pro Tip: Leave the convention center for lunch to reset and recharge. The walk to Inner Harbor and back gives your feet a break from standing.
Who Should Attend?
Serious Collectors
If You Collect Craft Art:
- Discover new artists before they blow up
- Add to your collection across multiple mediums
- Find that missing piece for your home
- Network with other collectors
- Attend special events and tours
Investment Perspective: Many artists who show at American Craft Made Baltimore go on to gallery representation, museum exhibitions, and increasing market value. Buying early means getting exceptional work at accessible prices.
Gift-Givers Seeking Something Special
Occasions Perfect for Craft:
- Weddings (unique registry or couple’s gift)
- Anniversaries (especially milestone years)
- Graduations (investment pieces they’ll treasure)
- Housewarmings (one-of-a-kind home décor)
- Retirements (meaningful, lasting gifts)
- Bar/Bat Mitzvahs (special keepsakes)
- “Just because” (sometimes the best reason!)
Why Handcrafted Gifts Matter:
- Shows thought and care in selection
- Unique pieces recipient won’t receive duplicates of
- Stories to tell about the artist and work
- Lasts a lifetime (unlike mass-produced items)
- Becomes treasured heirloom
Home Decorators & Interior Designers
Finding the Perfect Piece:
- Functional pottery for your kitchen
- Statement glass sculpture for your living room
- Handwoven textiles and wall hangings
- Custom furniture and woodwork
- Lighting and architectural elements
- Unique decorative objects
For Interior Designers:
- Source one-of-a-kind pieces for clients
- Build relationships with artists for custom work
- Discover emerging talent
- Find that perfect statement piece
- Commission work in specific sizes/colors
Craft Enthusiasts & Makers
If You’re a Maker Yourself:
- Get inspired by exceptional work
- Learn new techniques from demonstrations
- Network with professional artists
- Understand market expectations
- Support your fellow makers
- Appreciate the craftsmanship at the highest level
Couples & Date Day
Why American Craft Made is Great for Couples:
- Something for everyone’s taste
- Fun to browse and discover together
- Pick out pieces for your home
- Low-pressure, wander-at-your-own-pace
- Combine with Inner Harbor dining
- Make a romantic weekend in Baltimore
Families with Older Children/Teens
While This Isn’t a Kids’ Show:
- Teenagers interested in art will love it
- Educational for any age
- Inspires creativity
- Shows career possibilities in the arts
- Quick visit (2-3 hours) works fine
Family-Friendly Note: This show works best for families with children old enough to appreciate art and craft. Very young children may get restless. Consider taking turns browsing while one parent explores the Inner Harbor with small kids.
Harbor Park Garage: Your American Craft Made Parking Solution
A craft show where you might buy pottery, glass, or large artwork demands smart parking planning. You need easy access, flexibility, and affordability.
Location & Distance
Harbor Park Garage
55 Market Place
Baltimore, MD 21202
Distance to Baltimore Convention Center (Charles Street Entrance):
- 3-minute walk
- Straight shot on Pratt Street
- Can’t be more convenient
Flexible Parking Options
Single-Day Visitors: $18 All-Day
Perfect if you’re attending just Friday, Saturday, or Sunday:
- Park anytime
- Stay as long as you want (up to 12 hours)
- Leave when you’re done
- Return to your car with purchases
Multi-Day Visitors: $24 Overnight
Planning to attend multiple days? This is your solution:
- Park Friday morning
- Leave vehicle overnight Friday-Saturday
- Return Saturday, browse more, leave overnight again
- Finish Sunday, drive home
The Math:
- One day: $18
- Two days using overnight: $42 (Day 1: $18, Overnight: $24)
- Three days using overnight: $66 (Day 1: $18, Overnight: $24, Overnight: $24)
Compare to:
- Convention Center parking: $30/day × 3 days = $90 (you save $24)
- Hourly parking at $10/hour × 6 hours × 3 days = $180 (you save $114!)
Perfect for Shopping Large Items
The Scenario:
You fall in love with:
- A beautiful glass vase (fragile!)
- A handwoven wall hanging (large!)
- Multiple pottery pieces (heavy!)
- Custom wood furniture (bulky!)
The Harbor Park Garage Advantage:
Option 1: Multiple Car Trips
- All-day rate includes unlimited in/out
- Buy the glass vase, walk to car, secure it
- Return to show, continue browsing
- Buy the pottery, another trip to car
- No extra parking charges
Option 2: Use Shipping Concierge
- Let professionals package and ship
- Continue shopping unburdened
- Items arrive safely at home
- You just drive yourself home
Option 3: End-of-Day Pickup
- Many artists will hold purchased items at their booth
- Shop all day without carrying
- Pick up everything at end
- One trip to car with all purchases
Out-of-Town Visitors: Make a Weekend
Coming from out of town? Perfect opportunity for a Baltimore weekend:
Friday:
- Arrive late morning, park at Harbor Park Garage ($18)
- Check into hotel (many within walking distance)
- Opening Night Preview OR early evening at Inner Harbor
- Dinner at waterfront restaurant
- Leave car at garage overnight ($24)
Saturday:
- Full day at American Craft Made
- Lunch at Inner Harbor
- Shop and discover art all day
- Dinner at Fells Point or Canton
- Leave car overnight again ($24)
Sunday:
- Morning at the show for final purchases
- Sunday brunch in Baltimore
- Load up car and head home
Total Parking: $66 for entire weekend (vs. $90+ at hotels or convention center)
Bonus: You’re parked near hotels, dining, attractions, AND the convention center. One central location for your entire Baltimore weekend.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit
Before You Go
1. Review the Artist List Visit craftcouncil.org/events/2026-american-craft-made-baltimore closer to the event to browse participating artists. Many have:
- Websites with portfolio photos
- Instagram accounts showing recent work
- Contact information for questions
Mark your must-see artists on the floor plan.
2. Set Your Budget Decide what you’re comfortable spending:
- Browsing budget: $0-100 (just looking, maybe small items)
- Gift shopping budget: $200-500
- Serious collecting budget: $500-5,000+
- Investment pieces: $5,000+
Having a range in mind helps you shop confidently.
3. Know Your Measurements If you’re shopping for home:
- Wall space for artwork
- Table/counter sizes for pottery
- Cabinet/shelf dimensions
- Lighting conditions (for glass)
- Color schemes
Take photos of your spaces on your phone for reference.
4. Reserve Parking Book at Harbor Park Garage to guarantee your spot, especially for Opening Night or Saturday (busiest day).
5. Join American Craft Council If you’re serious about craft, ACC membership pays for itself immediately with free show tickets and discounts.
At the Show
Strategic Browsing:
First Pass (30-60 minutes):
- Walk all halls quickly
- Note booths that catch your eye
- Take photos (with artist permission) as memory aids
- Don’t buy yet — you want to see everything first
Second Pass (1-2 hours):
- Revisit your favorite booths
- Talk to artists about their work
- Ask questions about process, materials, care
- Handle pieces (gently!) to assess quality
- Consider purchases seriously
Third Pass (30-60 minutes):
- Make decisions
- Negotiate nicely (some artists offer small discounts)
- Arrange holding items while you continue
- Use shipping service if needed
Pro Tips:
Don’t Wait Too Long
- Popular artists sell out
- One-of-a-kind pieces sell quickly
- “I’ll think about it and come back” often means it’s gone
- If you love it, buy it
Talk to the Artists
- They love discussing their work
- Learn about techniques and materials
- Hear the inspiration behind pieces
- Build relationships for future commissions
Ask About Custom Work
- Many artists accept commissions
- Can create pieces in specific sizes/colors
- Perfect if you almost-but-not-quite found what you want
- Exchange contact information for future orders
Take Business Cards
- Even if you don’t buy today
- For future purchases
- To follow their work on social media
- To recommend to friends
Use Your Phone
- Photograph booth numbers with items you like
- Take detail shots (with permission)
- Text photos to gift recipients for input
- Document your favorites for future reference
What to Bring
Essential:
- Credit/debit cards (most artists accept cards)
- Cash (some smaller artists prefer cash)
- Phone (camera, notes, contact info)
- Reusable shopping bags
- Measurements of spaces
- Photos of your home/rooms
Helpful:
- Portable charger
- Small notepad
- Comfortable shoes (you’ll walk for hours)
- Water bottle
- Snacks
- Light jacket (convention centers vary in temperature)
For Serious Shopping:
- Bubble wrap or padding (if buying fragile items)
- Boxes or containers (for transport)
- Measuring tape
- Color swatches from your home
Walking to the Show from Harbor Park Garage
Easy 3-Minute Walk to Charles Street Entrance
Directions:
- Exit garage onto Market Place
- Turn left on Pratt Street
- Walk one block west
- Baltimore Convention Center entrance on your right
- Charles Street Lobby entrance for Halls A-C
Distance: One city block
Time: 3 minutes normal pace
Terrain: Flat sidewalks entire way
Carrying Purchases: The short walk makes it easy to make multiple trips to your car throughout the day if needed.
Beyond the Show: Baltimore’s Inner Harbor
Since you’re downtown for American Craft Made, extend your visit to explore Baltimore’s Inner Harbor!
Inner Harbor Attractions
National Aquarium (6-minute walk)
- Perfect complement to art show
- 2-3 hour visit
- Tickets available online
Maryland Science Center (4-minute walk)
- NEW exhibits just opened
- IMAX theater
- Planetarium shows
Harbor Wetland (6-minute walk)
- Free outdoor attraction
- Beautiful waterfront walk
- Award-winning environmental exhibit
Historic Ships (5-minute walk)
- USS Constellation and more
- Maritime history
- Self-guided tours
Dining Near Harbor Park Garage
Quick Lunch (30 minutes):
- Harborplace food court
- Chipotle, Panera, Subway
- Grab-and-go options
Leisurely Lunch (60-90 minutes):
- Phillips Seafood (Maryland crab cakes!)
- Hard Rock Cafe
- Rusty Scupper (waterfront views)
- McCormick & Schmick’s
Fine Dining:
- Roy’s (upscale waterfront)
- The Oceanaire (fresh seafood)
- Charleston (upscale American)
- The Capital Grille
Date Night After the Show: Make a romantic evening:
- Browse American Craft Made in afternoon
- Early dinner with harbor views
- Evening walk along the waterfront
- Drive home with your treasures
Shopping & Exploring
Harborplace & The Gallery
- Baltimore souvenirs
- Additional shopping
- Harbor views
Power Plant Live
- Entertainment complex
- Live music
- Nightlife
Fells Point (10-minute drive or Uber)
- Historic waterfront neighborhood
- Cobblestone streets
- Boutiques and galleries
- Excellent restaurants
- Evening entertainment
Supporting the American Craft Movement
When you buy at American Craft Made Baltimore, you’re not just purchasing beautiful objects. You’re supporting:
Individual Artists & Their Families
- Direct income for working artists
- Enables them to continue creating
- Supports their studios and businesses
- Funds materials for future work
The Craft Movement
- Preserves traditional techniques
- Encourages innovation and experimentation
- Inspires next generation of makers
- Keeps handwork alive in digital age
Local & National Economy
- Most artists are small business owners
- They employ apprentices and assistants
- Purchase materials from suppliers
- Pay for booth space, supporting show infrastructure
Quality Over Quantity
- Investment in lasting, meaningful objects
- Rejection of disposable consumer culture
- Appreciation for skill and craftsmanship
- Sustainable consumption
Reserve Your Parking Today
American Craft Made Baltimore attracts 10,000+ visitors over three days. The busiest times are Saturday afternoon and Sunday morning. Don’t risk parking headaches — reserve now.
Why Reserve at Harbor Park Garage?
Guaranteed Parking
- No circling for spots
- No “FULL” signs
- Peace of mind
Same Low Rates
- $18 single day
- $24 overnight for multi-day
- No premium for reserving
Easy Online Booking
- 2-minute process
- Instant confirmation
- Print or show on phone
How to Reserve
Online: harborparkgarage.com/parking-nearby/baltimore-convention-center
Phone: (410) 528-0888
Walk-Up: Usually available, first-come basis
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What’s the difference between American Craft Made and other craft fairs?
A: American Craft Made features juried, museum-quality work from professional artists across the country. Every artist has been selected by expert judges for exceptional craftsmanship. This isn’t a local craft fair with hobbyists — these are career artists creating investment-quality work.
Q: Are prices negotiable?
A: Some artists offer small discounts (5-10%) for multiple purchases or at end of day Sunday. Always ask politely, never pressure. Remember: these are working artists, not retail stores with big markups.
Q: Can I return items if I get home and change my mind?
A: Each artist sets their own policies. Ask before purchasing. Most will work with you if there’s a defect, but changing your mind isn’t usually grounds for return. That said, artists want happy customers and are often flexible.
Q: Should I buy on Friday or wait until Sunday for deals?
A: Best pieces sell quickly. If you love something, buy it. Waiting for Sunday means it might be gone. Artists are unlikely to discount significantly anyway.
Q: Can I commission custom work?
A: Absolutely! Many artists accept commissions. Exchange contact information and discuss your vision. Custom work typically requires deposits and extended timelines.
Q: Is photography allowed?
A: Always ask the artist first. Most allow photos for personal use but not for commercial purposes or close-up technique shots.
Q: What if I need to return to my car with fragile items?
A: Harbor Park Garage’s all-day rate includes unlimited in/out. Make as many trips as needed.
Q: Are kids allowed?
A: Yes, but this is a fine art show with valuable, fragile work. Supervise children closely. Many families find teenagers enjoy it more than young children.
Q: Can I bring a stroller?
A: Yes, though aisles can be crowded on Saturday. Morning or Sunday visit might be easier with strollers.
Q: Is food allowed in the show?
A: Check posted rules, but typically no food/drinks near artwork. Eat in designated areas or leave the show briefly.
Your Invitation to Extraordinary Craft
American Craft Made Baltimore isn’t just shopping. It’s an experience. It’s a celebration. It’s a connection to artists, materials, processes, and the enduring human drive to create beautiful things with our hands.
For one weekend each February, Baltimore hosts the finest craft artists in America. They bring their passion, skill, and vision. You bring your appreciation, curiosity, and support.
What will you discover? What will you take home? Whose work will you fall in love with?
There’s only one way to find out.
Mark Your Calendar
American Craft Made Baltimore 2026
Opening Night Preview: Thursday, February 19, 2026 (ticketed event)
Friday: February 20, 2026 | 10 AM – 6 PM
Saturday: February 21, 2026 | 10 AM – 6 PM
Sunday: February 22, 2026 | 10 AM – 5 PM
Baltimore Convention Center – Halls A, B, C
One West Pratt Street, Baltimore, MD 21201
Enter through Charles Street Lobby
Tickets & Information: craftcouncil.org/events/2026-american-craft-made-baltimore
Parking at Harbor Park Garage:
Single Day: $18 all-day
Multi-Day Overnight: $24 with unlimited in/out access
Reserve Parking: harborparkgarage.com/parking-nearby/baltimore-convention-center
Harbor Park Garage: Your Gateway to American Craft Made Baltimore
Just $18 all-day parking | Just $24 overnight for multi-day visits | Just 3 minutes to Charles Street entrance
Art. Craft. Community. It all starts with parking.
Reserve Your Spot: harborparkgarage.com/parking-nearby/baltimore-convention-center
