Annually, San Francisco plays host to a plethora of captivating craft fairs. While a handful of these fairs occur during the warm summer months, the majority are held amidst the festive period surrounding Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Typically spanning a duration of three to four days, these craft fairs present an array of goods ranging from exquisite jewelry to elegant furniture. They serve as an ideal venue to treat oneself with a unique artifact or procure a distinctive gift for a friend.
Certain fairs exhibit exclusively local artists from the Bay Area, whereas others feature a global palette of unique artisans.
Entry to most of these fairs is complimentary, allowing you to dedicate your finances towards acquiring fascinating items scattered throughout the festival.
1. Renegade Craft Fair
Visiting the city twice a year, the Renegade Craft Fair stages their summer spectacle in July and their holiday extravaganza typically on the third weekend of November.
This fair feature outstanding works from over 200 meticulously chosen artists. The stringent selection process ensures that the fair showcases some of the most superb handcrafted artifacts available.
The diverse array of items on offer at this event ranges from stylish clothing and sparkling jewelry to unique home decor items.
- Location: Festival Pavilion at the Fort Mason Center
- Dates: April & November
2. Urban Air Market
Urban Air Market serves as a platform for sustainable design and hosts multiple events annually, spotlighting independent artists at varied locations and venues across San Francisco.
Recognized as one of the largest events of its nature in the US, the designers’ showcase displays vendors selling a wide array of items including accessories, home decor, body products, and art. Each event delivers a unique experience with a mix of fresh and established vendors.
- Location: Multiple venues across San Francisco
- Dates: Occurs multiple times each year
3. Delightful Pleasanton Quilt, Craft, and Sewing Festival
The Pleasanton Quilt, Craft, and Sewing Festival spans three captivating days, inviting visitors of all ages with no entry fee. Explore numerous stalls offering premium materials for all your quilting, sewing, needle-arts, and craft endeavors. Both local and international merchandise are available at these kiosks, often at enticing prices.
Beyond just shopping, the festival provides complimentary classes to spark your creativity for upcoming projects.
Pleasanton lies approximately 50 minutes to the east of San Francisco.
- Location: Alameda County Fairgrounds, Pleasanton
- Dates: September
4. Captivating Pacific International Quilt Festival
Over four immersive days, the Pacific International Quilt Festival provides a platform for appreciating artwork, exhibiting your creations, and browsing a wide range of fabrics for sale.
The festival also features informative workshops and lectures to help master new techniques, alongside quilt and wearable art contests.
The highlight of the event includes special displays and the opportunity to interact with fellow quilt enthusiasts.
Santa Clara is nestled about 50 minutes to the south of San Francisco, at the core of Silicon Valley.
- Location: Santa Clara Convention Center
- Date: October
5. Enchanting Great Dickens Fair
Step into the past with the Great Dickens Fair, which transports you to the era of Victorian London. During the fair, relish melodious music, delectable food, and a market replete with a diverse array of crafts and gifts perfect for the holiday season.
Starting in November, the fair occurs every weekend until the weekend preceding Christmas, and is also open the day following Thanksgiving.
- Location: Cow Palace
- Date: November & December
6. Engaging West Coast Craft Fair
The West Coast Craft Fair is a free event dedicated to showcasing artists who draw inspiration from the distinct ambiance and aesthetics of the West Coast lifestyle. With more than 250 artists exhibiting their creations during this two-day event, it’s a hub for art lovers.
Beyond browsing and buying crafts, visitors can also partake in workshops held on both days, offering a perfect avenue to refine your artistic abilities and learn new crafts.
- Location: Fort Mason Center
- Date: Changes annually
Other Highlighted Annual Events, Festivals, & Fairs
Art Fairs: Explore an array of annual art fairs in SF, from high-end antique exhibitions to open studio events featuring local artists.
North Beach Festival: This annual festival located in North Beach offers an abundant selection of arts and crafts. Every June, wander along the scenic streets of this charming district and discover unique creations by local and national artists.
Union Street Festival: Yet another art-centric event is the Union Street Festival. Occurring in June, this festival attracts artists from across the country, where visitors can browse paintings, photographs, jewelry, clothing, and much more.
Hello there! I’m Dennis, and I am delighted to welcome you to San Francisco Discovery Guide. As a lifelong resident of this magnificent city, I am thrilled to share my love and knowledge of San Francisco with fellow adventurers like yourself.
Growing up amidst the breathtaking landscapes, eclectic neighborhoods, and vibrant culture of San Francisco, I developed a deep appreciation for the city’s unique charm. Over the years, I’ve explored its nooks and crannies, uncovered hidden gems, and created countless unforgettable memories.