Call for Artists for the 35th annual 43rd Street Festival of the Arts.
The Festival is Saturday, September 12th, 2026, 10 am to 4 pm.
This event is limited to 75 regional artisans and features some of the finest arts and crafts available in the area. It is a great way for artists to show and sell their work to an appreciative audience. A unique selection of contemporary art, fantastic music, great food and a loyal crowd help round out the event.
The show is located in the Forest Hill Neighborhood of Richmond, VA.
PRIZE MONEY AND AWARDS
- Best in Show, Fine Arts (2-D): $200
- Best in Show, Craft (3-D): $200
- Judge’s Choice Award: $200
ENTRY INFORMATION AND FEES
$10 Application Fee. $100 Booth Fee.
Applications, images, and application fees are due by April 1st, 2026.
Each entrant must submit a nonrefundable application fee of $10.
All applicants must submit five (5) digital images of current work.
Please include four (4) of recent work plus a booth shot.
Booth shot REQUIRED with your application.
Please give a description of the work.
Exhibitor notification: online by email to all artists by April 15th. Artists who are selected must submit a booth fee of $100 (online) upon receipt of acceptance No later than May 15th to secure their space. note: May 15th, 2026 for booth fees.
(**Please note that it is not our responsibility if you do not check your emails for info on deadlines for applications/ fees or acceptance/rejection notifications. You may have to check your “Junk” mail, but all will be notified by April 15th. We will post on FB when they are sent out, but it is up to you to check.)
APPLICATION INFORMATION
Online submissions only. Applications available and posted on Facebook and Instagram at 43rd Street Festival of the Arts and online at our website. Application information will be sent to prior attendees.
We strive to have a minimum turnover of 25% of the artisans each year. Some exhibitors will be rotated out as needed.
GENERAL INFORMATION
An accepted application is a commitment to show. No refunds will be made and the show will be held rain or shine.* We expect all artists to be in attendance at their booth and to present their work in a professional manner. (*Exceptions, hurricanes and Covid.)
For over 30 years, the festival has raised funds to support organizations that help shelter and care for the homeless. We partner with CARITAS, whose help makes this show possible. All profits from an artist designed T-shirt and proceeds from a raffle of donated artwork will benefit CARITAS. The festival staff is completely volunteer. You will be asked to donate a piece of artwork for the raffle the morning of the show. We keep the booth fees low to encourage participation, but it is voluntary.
We advertise in print, radio, and social media. We count heavily on YOU to also help get your customers to the show. E-mail postcards will be sent to all exhibitors. Please share ours and create your own FB and Instagram posts. Accepted artists are encouraged to send us info packets and images of your work.
* Send us a design for this year’s T-shirt. If accepted and your design is used, we will refund your booth fee.
43rd Street Festival
1410 W. 43rd St., Richmond, VA 23225
(804) 233-1758