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Evanston Winter Craft Fair
Evanston, IL
Handmade arts and crafts from over 140 selected artisans.
About
Discover a treasure trove of unique, handmade creations at the Evanston Art Center's Annual Winter Arts + Crafts Expo. This month-long event showcases original works from over 140 talented artisans, featuring everything from intricate jewelry and ceramics to stunning paintings and mixed media. It's the perfect place to find one-of-a-kind gifts and support local artists.
Our Take
Family Friendly
Best For
Gift shopping, supporting local artists, finding unique holiday presents
Vibe
Festive, creative, community-oriented
Energy Level
Low to medium (casual browsing)
Budget
Varies (Items Range In Price)
Photo Friendly
High (many visually appealing crafts)
Weather Sensitivity
Low (indoor event)
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.
Location
Event Details
Pricing
Preview party tickets are $50 at the door.
Duration
Daily hours vary, event runs for approximately 4 weeks
Ages
All ages
Schedule
General Shopping: November 23 - December 20, with hours Monday-Thursday 9 am-6 pm, Friday 9 am-5 pm, and Saturday-Sunday 9 am-4 pm. The event is closed on Thanksgiving Day. A Preview Party is scheduled for November 22nd from 6-9 pm.
Organizer
Evanston Art Center
Practical Information
Parking
A limited number of parking permits are available at no charge to students registered for 5-week sessions or longer, obtainable at the front desk. Street parking is available on nearby residential streets.
Accessibility
The building is accessible to wheelchair users with power-assist doors, an elevator, and an accessible restroom on the first floor. Students of all abilities are welcome to enroll in any class. Contact the Director of Education at 847-475-5300 to learn more about building accessibility or to request an accommodation for a specific class.
Pet Policy
No pets allowed (service animals welcome)
Food & Drink
Food and drinks are available at the Preview Party.
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Arrive early on weekends to experience the widest selection of artisan goods before popular items sell out.
- Consider attending the Preview Party for an exclusive first look at the crafts and a festive atmosphere.
- Utilize public transportation via the CTA Purple Line or Metra to easily access the venue and avoid parking hassles.
- Check the Evanston Art Center's website for a list of participating artists to discover specific creators you might want to seek out.
- Dress comfortably for browsing, as you'll want to explore all the unique offerings from the diverse range of artisans.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of crafts can I expect to find?
The expo features a wide variety of original, handmade arts and crafts, including jewelry, ceramics, fiber art, metalwork, glass art, paintings, photography, and mixed media.
Is there a special event before the main shopping dates?
Yes, there is a Preview Party on November 22nd from 6-9 pm, offering early shopping opportunities along with food and drinks.
What are the operating hours for general shopping?
General shopping hours are Monday-Thursday from 9 am to 6 pm, Friday from 9 am to 5 pm, and Saturday-Sunday from 9 am to 4 pm.
How can I get to the Evanston Art Center?
The venue is accessible via the CTA Purple Line (Central Street stop) or the Metra Central Street Station. It is located at 1717 Central Street.
Are there any specific policies regarding returns or exchanges?
While specific return policies are not detailed, it is advisable to inquire directly with individual artisans or the Evanston Art Center regarding exchanges or returns.