Every July, downtown Ann Arbor transforms into one of the nation’s most celebrated outdoor art destinations as the Ann Arbor Art Fair returns for three days of creativity, community, and culture. This year, from July 16th–18th, more than 1,000 juried artists will fill approximately 30 city blocks with original artwork spanning painting, sculpture, ceramics, jewelry, photography, glass, fiber, and more. But the Ann Arbor Art Fair is much more than an art show: it’s a beloved summer tradition that brings together artists, collectors, families, and visitors from across the country. Whether you’re hoping to purchase an original piece, meet the artists behind the work, enjoy live demonstrations and entertainment, or simply soak in the vibrant atmosphere, there’s something for everyone. Here’s everything you need to know about the three fairs that make up this iconic Ann Arbor event and how to make the most of your visit.

The Story Behind the Ann Arbor Art Fair

How a Sidewalk Art Sale Became a National Tradition

The Ann Arbor Art Fair began in 1960 as a modest sidewalk art sale inspired by local merchant Bruce Henry, who envisioned an “arts and crafts market” alongside the city’s Summer Bargain Days. After 1,000 invitations were sent to artists, 132 responded. That July, 99 local artists and 33 artists from across Michigan displayed their work in makeshift booths strung between parking meters along South University Avenue, creating the foundation for what would become a beloved summer tradition.

Over the next six decades, the fair expanded from two city blocks into what it is today, a nationally recognized event spanning approximately 30 blocks of downtown Ann Arbor and attracting nearly 1,000 juried artists and close to half a million visitors each July. The addition of the State Street District Art Fair in 1967 and The Guild’s Ann Arbor Summer Art Fair in 1970 helped shape today’s unique “Three Fairs. One Event.” experience, while the support of the University of Michigan and the Ann Arbor Downtown Development Authority (DDA) have been instrumental to its growth. As Angela Kline, Executive Director of the Ann Arbor Street Art Fair, The Original, explains, “At the heart of it is an unwavering commitment to quality,” which is supported by the enduring backing of the City, the University of Michigan, and a community that genuinely values the arts.

Why the Ann Arbor Art Fair Still Matters Today

For more than six decades, the Ann Arbor Art Fair has remained a defining summer tradition because it celebrates not just art, but the people and businesses that make Ann Arbor unique. Independent artists have the opportunity to meet collectors face-to-face, share the inspiration behind their work, and sell original, one-of-a-kind pieces directly to the public. At the same time, the event delivers a major economic boost to local hotels, restaurants, retailers, and other downtown businesses, generating millions of dollars in visitor spending each year.

The fair’s resilience has also reinforced its place in the community. After the pandemic forced the first cancellation in more than 60 years, organizers successfully revived the event in just five weeks in 2021, and beloved programs like the Art Activity Zone, NANA (New Art, New Artists), and the Art Demo Zone continue to inspire new generations of artists and visitors. Nick Lemmer, Executive Director of the State Street District, says the fair’s lasting appeal comes from “the quality of the artists, the support of the community, and decades of collaboration between the three fairs,” making it “a destination event that visitors from all over the Midwest plan entire trips around.” For residents and visitors alike, it’s a chance to experience Ann Arbor at its creative best while discovering artwork that can’t be found anywhere else.

Meet the Three Fairs That Make Up One Event

Ann Arbor Street Art Fair, The Original

Founded in 1960, the Ann Arbor Street Art Fair, The Original, is the event that launched what is now the nationally renowned Ann Arbor Art Fair. The oldest of the three fairs, it features a highly competitive blind jury process that showcases approximately 200 artists working exclusively in original, one-of-a-kind fine art and fine craft, with no commercial prints or reproductions permitted. Set against the picturesque backdrop of North University Avenue, Ingalls Mall, and East Washington Street, the fair surrounds iconic University of Michigan landmarks like the Burton Memorial Tower and Hill Auditorium, creating an open-air gallery unlike any other. Visitors can also enjoy artist demonstrations, including the longtime Potters Guild showcase and live glassblowing, offering an up-close look at the creative process.

“As the fair that started it all in 1960 … what has never changed, and never will, is our exclusive focus on one-of-a-kind, original works of art: no prints, no reproductions – just fine art made by hand, made to last, made once,” says Angela Kline, Executive Director of the Ann Arbor Street Art Fair, The Original. Collectors often begin their Art Fair experience here, drawn by its exceptional quality, museum-caliber artwork, and rich tradition of artistic excellence.

Know Before You Go

• Ideal for serious art collectors seeking one-of-a-kind fine art.
• Arrive early to enjoy the best selection of artwork.
• Wear comfortable walking shoes.
• Explore nearby University of Michigan landmarks and museums between booths.
• Take time to chat with the artists, as their stories are part of the experience.

State Street District Art Fair

The State Street District Art Fair was founded in 1967 and offers a lively blend of fine art, local shopping, dining, and entertainment in the heart of downtown Ann Arbor. Stretching throughout the State Street District, which includes State Street, East Liberty Street, North University Avenue, Maynard Street, East William Street, and Thompson Street, the fair showcases a juried selection of artists working in diverse mediums, from painting and ceramics to photography, glass, wood, and jewelry. An emerging artists section, interactive activities, and the vibrant Marketplace featuring handcrafted goods make it an inviting destination for visitors of all ages. Award-winning restaurants, cafés, sidewalk sales, as well as the historic Michigan Theater and State Theatre add to its welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere, making it an excellent choice for first-time Art Fair visitors.

“The State Street District offers a unique blend of local businesses, restaurants, and university energy,” says Nick Lemmer, Executive Director of the State Street District. “Visitors can shop the fair while also experiencing one of Ann Arbor’s most vibrant commercial districts.” That combination of exceptional art, local flavor, and downtown energy creates an experience that encourages visitors to slow down, explore beyond the booths, and discover everything the neighborhood has to offer.

Know Before You Go

• This fair is a great spot for lunch, coffee, and shopping between artist booths.
• Plenty of cafés and indoor spaces offer a break from the crowds.
• A family-friendly fair with something for all ages.
• Wear comfortable shoes and make time to explore the surrounding neighborhood.

The Guild’s Ann Arbor Summer Art Fair

Founded in 1970 and produced by The Guild of Artists & Artisans, The Guild’s Ann Arbor Summer Art Fair has grown into the largest of the three fairs that comprise the Ann Arbor Art Fair. Spanning Main Street, East Liberty Street, State Street, and South University Avenue, it brings together roughly 400 juried artists and the energy of downtown Ann Arbor, creating a vibrant experience that appeals to both dedicated art collectors and casual visitors. The fair showcases a wide variety of artistic mediums and price points. At the same time, interactive experiences such as Chalk the Walk with David Zinn, the Kids Collectors Club, hands-on art activities, and artist demonstrations help make art accessible to all ages. Visitors can also enjoy live entertainment on the Stage on Main, food vendors, and expanded outdoor dining from popular local restaurants.

“We truly want to create a space where fine art can belong to everyone,” says Karen Bauer, Executive Director of The Guild of Artists & Artisans and the Ann Arbor Summer Art Fair. That philosophy is reflected throughout the fair, where museum-quality artwork, emerging artists, family-friendly programming, and the lively atmosphere of Main Street come together. Popular with both locals and visitors, it’s an ideal place to experience the creativity, energy, and community spirit that define the Ann Arbor Art Fair.

Know Before You Go

• Allow extra time to explore the fair’s expansive footprint.
• Check the live entertainment schedule before you arrive.
• Main Street is perfect for dinner after browsing.
• Expect larger evening crowds.
• Convenient parking structures and shuttle stops are located nearby.

Featured Artists to Watch

John Dinser (from Ann Arbor Street Art Fair, The Original)

After spending more than 25 years as a professional illustrator, Ypsilanti artist John Dinser is embracing a new creative chapter: one driven entirely by curiosity and personal inspiration. His expressive paintings blend realistic subjects with bold, loose brushwork, reflecting his love of experimenting with paint, light, and color. “I am now doing images that I want to do because I find them fun,” Dinser says. His work draws inspiration from everything from everyday life and childhood memories to surreal imagination, resulting in paintings that feel both familiar and unexpected.

A four-time exhibitor at the Ann Arbor Street Art Fair, The Original, Dinser says that showing at the fair has long been a dream. “It was the one I wanted to do when I was in high school,” he says. Visitors can expect to meet an artist whose passion for painting is as memorable as the artwork itself.

Aaron Reed (from State Street District Art Fair)

For more than a decade, Aaron Reed has been a favorite at the State Street District Art Fair, captivating visitors with vibrant, figurative-abstract paintings that celebrate music, love, and motion. A self-taught artist from Albany, Georgia, Reed works primarily with colored pencils and acrylic, creating energetic compositions filled with bold color, texture, and expressive negative space. “I hope they feel the energy, message, and passion that I put into each piece,” Reed says. His 2026 booth will feature his popular abstract, jazz, love, and wine collections, all inspired by life’s everyday moments and meaningful connections.

Reed credits the Ann Arbor Art Fair as a defining part of his career, calling it “one of the best shows in the country.” First-time visitors, he says, should come prepared to discover an incredible variety of artistic styles, and perhaps find the perfect piece to transform their home with original artwork.

Cherie Haney (from The Guild’s Ann Arbor Summer Art Fair)

For nearly a quarter of a century, Ann Arbor artist Cherie Haney, creator of Art & Element, has been a familiar presence at The Guild’s Ann Arbor Summer Art Fair. Her striking aluminum wall sculptures blend modern, eclectic design with bold color, layered patterns, and meticulous metalwork inspired by architecture, industrial textures, and the balance of opposing forces. Haney’s passion for metal arts began at age 14 and has continued to evolve through decades of experimentation. “My work is always evolving and morphing. I try to keep my mind open to the creative spirit of the cosmic universe,” she says. 

A longtime exhibitor, Haney describes the fair as a hometown tradition close to her heart, recalling childhood visits before eventually becoming an artist herself. Visitors can expect a gallery-style booth where they can explore her vibrant indoor and outdoor sculptures while chatting directly with the artist about her creative process and how each piece can complement a home’s unique style.

The Ann Arbor Art Fair: A Summer Tradition Worth Experiencing

Whether you’re a dedicated art collector, a first-time visitor, or simply looking for an unforgettable summer outing, the Ann Arbor Art Fair offers an experience unlike any other. From interactive demonstrations and family-friendly activities to sidewalk cafés and downtown shopping, it’s easy to spend an entire day exploring. However you choose to experience it, the Ann Arbor Art Fair continues to showcase the very best of Ann Arbor’s creative energy. It remains one of Michigan’s most beloved summer traditions.

Planning Your Visit

Looking for the latest event details, maps, parking information, shuttle services, and official announcements? Be sure to review the official Ann Arbor Art Fair press release for important visitor information, schedules, and updates before you go.