2026 Syracuse Arts & Crafts Festival This Week

55th Annual Syracuse Arts & Crafts Festival Kicks Off

This Week in Downtown Syracuse

Free, family-friendly festival kicks off Friday, July 24 Runs Through Sunday, July 26

Syracuse, NY – Later this week, the 55th annual Syracuse Arts & Crafts Festival, presented by M&T Bank and organized by the Downtown Committee of Syracuse, kicks off in Columbus Circle and surrounding streets. The neighborhood will come alive with artists, craftspeople, street performers, strolling musicians and summer refreshments! Recognized as one of the most prestigious events of its kind in Central New York, this festival has received numerous national awards over the years.

This free, family-friendly festival begins on Friday, July 24 and runs through Sunday, July 26. It will take place at the intersection of East Onondaga, East Jefferson and Montgomery Streets. Visitors are encouraged to stop by the Information Booth situated in front of the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception (map), for full festival information.

The Syracuse Arts & Crafts Festival, presented by M&T Bank with support from National Grid will feature close to 140 talented artists, representing 22 states and Mexico. During the exciting three-day festival, attendees can explore a wide variety of contemporary arts and crafts, including ceramics, sculptures, photography, painting, woodwork, jewelry, clothing and much more. For detailed information about the participating artists, previews of their work, and the entertainment schedule, please visit the event website.

The Syracuse Arts & Crafts Festival is the longest-running festival in Downtown Syracuse and is the last stop on the 2026 Syracuse Art Trail, a collaborative project between CNY Arts and local arts & culture organizations.

"The festival is our signature cultural event of the year that both artists and community members anticipate," said Merike Treier, Executive Director of the Downtown Committee of Syracuse, Inc. "Attendees can look forward to talented artists and crafters exhibiting their works, along with strolling entertainment, and interactive family activities right in the heart of our city. We invite everyone to experience the festival and discover everything that Downtown has to offer."

The Downtown Committee is grateful for the support of presenting sponsor M&T Bank and their continued dedication to this region’s success.

“At M&T Bank, we believe vibrant communities are built through the people, traditions and experiences that bring us together,” said Steve Gorczynski, M&T Bank Central New York Regional President. “The Syracuse Arts & Crafts Festival has done exactly that for more than five decades, creating opportunities for artists to share their talents while drawing residents and visitors to the heart of our city. We’re proud to support this longstanding tradition and celebrate the creativity, energy and community spirit that make Downtown Syracuse such a special place.”

The festival offers a variety of experiences for attendees of all ages. Throughout the event, there will be engaging, hands-on activities organized by CNY Arts, the Everson Museum, McClurg, Right Mind Syracuse, and the Syracuse Parks & Recreation Department.

On Saturday, come and witness over 50 artists transform the sidewalks of Montgomery Street (200 block) during the Stay Fresh Chalk Jam. Throughout the weekend, attendees will also be treated to a variety of live entertainment, including strolling musicians and performers. Additionally, the Syracuse Chapter of the American Guild of Organists will present mini-organ recitals at Plymouth Congregational Church over the course of the festival.

The Syracuse Arts & Crafts Festival, presented by M&T Bank, runs from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm on Friday, July 24, and from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm on Saturday, July 25 and Sunday, July 26. For more information about the 55th annual Syracuse Arts & Crafts Festival, please visit SyracuseArtsandCraftsFestival.com.