82nd Waterford Fair, An Autumn Celebration of Americana

USE THIS FORM IF YOU HAVE RECEIVED AN INVITATION TO JOIN US AS A "WATERFORD LANDMARK ARTISAN".
All other applicants should use the Demonstrating Artisan application.

 
Please read through the information below and the Prospectus in the "related files" section as there are changes from last year. Any questions, please let us know. We can't wait to see you in October!
The Waterford Fair Team 

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The Waterford Fair is the quintessential fall celebration of Americana and a tradition of craft and community for over 80 years! Just in case you may want to apply to a different Fair venue, they are all listed below:

> Juried Fine Craft Show for Demonstrating Artisans     > Fine Art Show & Sale and Art Mart

 > Old Mill Shop for Crafts (do not need to be onsite)     > Dried Flower Barn (do not need to be onsite)

You are currently reviewing the WLA prospectus. Applications for the other venues listed above can be found on our website: waterfordfairva.org after March 1st. Not sure which area is best for your art or craft? Contact us, we are happy to talk about your best fit!

Early Bird Savings: Register via Eventeny by 5:00 PM on March 8, 2026, to save $10 (Early Bird: $30; Regular: $40). 

OVERVIEW
Rated by Sunshine Artist magazine – 100 Best Classic & Contemporary Craft Shows
The Waterford Fair is held within the National Historic Landmark village of Waterford, Virginia. This 18th-century Quaker settlement provides an unparalleled backdrop for 90 select heritage and contemporary artisans to demonstrate their craft, sell to a sophisticated audience, and build lasting relationships with a dedicated collector base. Over 15,000 visitors attend annually to experience the village's historic homes, curated demonstrations, and high-quality juried wares across eleven media categories.

The Fair began as a small local craft show and fundraiser in 1943 dedicated to preserving the village’s historic Old Mill. Since those early days, it has grown into a premier destination for traditional and modern craft, while remaining true to its mission. Today, participation in the Fair directly supports the Waterford Foundation, a 501(c)(3) dedicated to the preservation of the Landmark and the education of the public regarding traditional crafts and history.

Nestled in the heart of D.C.’s Wine Country, Waterford sits within the most affluent region in the U.S. Target Demographic: Loudoun County consistently ranks as the #1 county in America for median household income ($173,655+), with neighboring Fairfax County holding the #2 spot.

The "Waterford Welcome": Artisans benefit from an educated, affluent, and loyal clientele who value the provenance and quality of handmade goods.

Artisans are supported by an enthusiastic network of villagers and volunteers. For those seeking an authentic immersion into the community, we offer an Artisan Homestay program. 

The Waterford Fair is the quintessential fall celebration of Americana. To ensure you apply for the venue that best fits your work, please review our four participation options:

• Juried Fine Craft Show for Demonstrating Artisans: (this prospectus) For practitioners who use traditional tools/materials, dress in period attire, and demonstrate their craft 50% of the time.
• Fine Art Show & Sale and Art Mart: For painters, 3-D artists, and illustrators in a gallery setting.
• Old Mill Shop for Crafts: A juried retail shop environment (presence on-site not required), items taken on consignment.
• Dried Flower Barn: A specialized botanical retail venue (presence on-site not required), items taken on consignment.

You are currently reviewing the Demonstrating Artisan application prospectus. Applications for the other venues listed above can be found on our website: waterfordfairva.org after March 1st. Not sure which area is best for your art or craft? Contact us, we are happy to talk about your best fit!

Early Bird Savings: Apply via Eventeny by 5:00 PM on March 8, 2026, to save $10 (Early Bird: $30; Regular: $40).

FAIR OVERVIEW

A Tradition of Craft and Community: The Waterford Fair is held within the National Historic Landmark village of Waterford, Virginia. This 18th-century Quaker settlement provides an unparalleled backdrop for 85 select heritage and contemporary artisans to demonstrate their craft, sell to a sophisticated audience, and build lasting relationships with a dedicated collector base. Over 15,000 visitors attend annually to experience the village's historic homes, curated demonstrations, and high-quality juried wares across eleven media categories.

The Fair began as a small local craft show and fundraiser in 1943 dedicated to preserving the village’s historic Old Mill. Since those early days, it has grown into a premier destination for traditional and modern craft, while remaining true to its mission. Today, participation in the Fair directly supports the Waterford Foundation, a 501(c)(3) dedicated to the preservation of the Landmark and the education of the public regarding traditional crafts and history.

Nestled in the heart of D.C.’s Wine Country, Waterford sits within the most affluent region in the U.S. Target Demographic: Loudoun County consistently ranks as the #1 county in America for median household income ($173,655+), with neighboring Fairfax County holding the #2 spot.

Artisans benefit from an educated, affluent, and loyal clientele who value the provenance and quality of handmade goods. and are supported by an enthusiastic network of villagers and volunteers. For those seeking an authentic immersion into the community, we offer an Artisan Homestay program.

Do you have a unique perspective on local history or traditional craftsmanship? We are seeking engaging speakers to share their expertise at the Waterford Fair. Whether your passion lies in the Waterford National Historic Landmark, the history of the Fair itself, or the U.S. 250th anniversary, we want to hear from you!

The Format: Presentations are 20 minutes, followed by a 10-minute Q&A session with our curious and engaged audience.

We are looking for topics such as:

Craft & Industry: The evolution of a specific craft or its historical significance.
Local & Regional History: Civil War, Quaker heritage, or Victorian life.
The Road to 250: Stories related to the American Revolution and our nation's founding.
Rural Village Life: Historical trades, tools, or education.

Have a different idea? This list isn't exhaustive—we welcome diverse topics that celebrate our heritage! You are welcome to submit multiple ideas; please simply complete a separate form for each topic.

We are seeking engaging professionals passionate about the Waterford National Historic Landmark, Virginia’s rich cultural heritage, and the upcoming Semiquincentennial (250th) celebrations.

We look for "full-circle" interpretation. In addition to a living history demonstration, successful applicants will provide an interactive activity for children and a formal presentation for our Tent Talk series.

Please note: On-site sales or donation collections are reviewed on a case-by-case basis. Fees may apply.

Join the conversation: Complete our short inquiry form below, and our team will be in touch to discuss potential opportunities.