ACC Announces National Craft Open Studios Weekend
February 6, 2026
Minneapolis, MN — On July 18-19, 2026, the American Craft Council will launch National Craft Open Studios Weekend: A first-of-its-kind, nationwide celebration that invites the public into the creative spaces of more that 1,500 craft artists across the country. This two-day event will offer guests a rare glimpse into the processes, tools, and inspiration that shape how handmade works are made, and provide artists critical support in their sales season.
National Craft Open Studios Weekend is presented by the American Craft Council and launches as part of Craft in America’s Handwork: Celebrating American Craft 2026. Similar to what Record Store Day or Independent Bookstore Day do for their creative ecosystems, National Craft Open Studios Weekend will provide support for artists and makers, and strengthen the national craft community through shared storytelling.
“From small towns to the biggest cities, communities throughout our country are witnessing an American craft renaissance,” says Andrea Specht, Executive Director of the American Craft Council. “It is more vital than ever that we see and support the things that bring us together, and for nearly 85 years, ACC has championed craft as a powerful force fostering human dignity and connection.”
National Craft Open Studios Weekend is open to all skill levels, mediums, and studio size. The weekend aims to increase awareness of craft as a living art form and highlight the importance of supporting artists. Artists can sign up to participate beginning March 2, 2026, and a list of participating artists will be available in May 2026.
To participate, artists must register in advance (registration will open in March 2026). Once registered and approved, artists will appear on a comprehensive map that guests can use to find artists in their area. Artist registration starts at $15, and attendees can join the celebration and see the artist map with a suggested donation of $10 or more, helping ACC advance its mission to serve as the national hub for American craft.
About the American Craft Council:
The American Craft Council (ACC) is a national nonprofit fostering connection through the handmade. Building upon an 80+ year legacy of tradition and innovation as a membership-based nonprofit, ACC leverages the transformative possibilities of craft through storytelling, resources for artists and appreciators, and events. In partnership with organizations across the country, we mobilize our diverse craft ecosystem to create a world where objects matter, makers thrive, and craft connects.
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