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Important: When completing the application, please enter "N/A" in the Business field if you do not have a registered business name.
We are seeking an original "Waterford Scene" image to serve as the face of the 2026 Waterford Fair. The selected artwork (or a featured portion) will be showcased on the Fair booklet cover and across all promotional materials, both print and digital.
Submission Guidelines
- Acceptable Media: Painting, drawing, digital, and mixed media. Color is preferred.
- Eligibility: Entries must have been produced after August 2024.
- Quantity: You may submit up to four (4) entries.
- Format: For initial submission, low-resolution images are acceptable. However, the selected artist must be able to provide a high-resolution digital file or bring the physical piece to Waterford for professional imaging.
Timeline & Recognition
- Deadline: All entries must be submitted by March 31, 2026.
- Selection Notice: The chosen artist will be notified by April 10, 2026.
- Artist Benefit: The selected artist will receive full credit on all platforms. We will also issue a dedicated press release and social media feature highlighting your work and artistic background.
Questions? Please contact the office at fairadmin@waterfordfoundation.org or call 540-882-3018 x 7.
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.
We are so excited to welcome returning and new artists to the Fine Art Show & Sale and Art Mart at the 82nd Fair!
Please complete this short online application for the Fine Art Exhibit, Art Mart or both, or if you prefer, print and mail the registration form along with your application fee check (printable pdf form located in the related files section on this page). The Art Mart and Fine Art Exhibit are combined into one application.
ART is located at the Red Barn, in the center of the of the village. Fine Art is in the upper level and Art Mart in the lower level. We are proud of the quality of the art that is offered at the Waterford Fair and expect the Red Barn Exhibit to be a big hit with the Fair’s visitors!
The Fair is presented by the Waterford Foundation. Funds raised are used to preserve and protect the Waterford National Historic Landmark and to educate future generations about early life in rural America. Please read the attached prospectus carefully as Art Mart and Fine Art criteria and processes differ. We recommend you download the prospectus and note important dates for future reference. Thank you for taking part and for helping us keep our mission going strong!
We are excited to welcome returning and new artisans, bakers and local authors to the Old Mill Shop for the 82nd Fair!
During the Fair, the Waterford Foundation offers fair-goers a selection of one-of-a-kind handmade items, yummy treats and books from more than 80 juried artisans, bakers and authors (hearafter referred to as Consignors) at our venue "The Old Mill Shop".
Acceptable items:
Fine Craft Categories: Clay, fiber/textiles, glass, leather, metal, mixed media, paper, and wood (including small furniture).
Home & Lifestyle: Baked goods, books, heritage foods (e.g., tea, flour, etc.), textiles, and home décor.
Apparel: Clothing, accessories and jewelry.
We recommend that all Consignors (new and returning) review the documents in the "related files" section before beginning the application.
If you are a returning consignor please upload one image representative of your work or if you have new items that have not been juried before upload images of the new work(s). NEW applicants must include images representative of all of the items you will sell (up to 10 images) and of your workspace or studio.
Upon jury selection you will be sent the Consignment Record (inventory) spreadsheet for completion. This spreadsheet needs to be complete and approved prior to arriving for inventory check in. You will also list if you are bringing a 6' folding table and any display items on this form.
The Old Mill is located at the western end of the village at 40105 Main St, Waterford, VA 20197.
If you have any questions, please contact the Fair office at 540-882-3018 x 7 or fairadmin@waterfordfoundation.org. We look forward to reviewing your application!
Join the Menu at the 82nd Annual Waterford Fair
We are on the hunt for exceptional food and drink purveyors to help make the Waterford Fair a true culinary destination. Whether you’re bringing a food truck, a tent, or a vintage cart, we want to hear from you! Our goal is a vibrant mix of savory and sweet, from gourmet bites to the classic fair favorites that keep our crowds happy.
Why Partner With Us?
Waterford isn’t just a beautiful backdrop; it’s a unique business opportunity.
- A High-Value Audience: Located in the heart of DC’s wine country, Loudoun County remains the #1 wealthiest county in America ($173,655 median income). Our neighbor, Fairfax, isn't far behind.
- Serious Foot Traffic: We host approximately 15,000 visitors over our three-day event.
- Flexibility: You are welcome to join us for 1, 2, or all 3 days of the Fair.
- Support a Mission: As a 501(c)(3), the Waterford Foundation uses the funds raised at the Fair to preserve our National Historic Landmark village and share the story of early American rural life.
Our fees are based on a percentage of your sales, paid after the Fair (less your initial deposit). Final payments are due by the end of October.
See the "Related Files" section of this application for important documents. Read the Prospectus before completing the application.
One quick tip: Please save your login and password! You can return to this application at any time to edit your details or upload your documents.
Farm and Value Added Producers, join us 1, 2 or all 3 days of the Fair to showcase and sell your products. We do not accept resellers, wholesalers or brokers.
Farmers and producers of artisanal products will herein be referred to as "Merchants".
SAVE YOUR LOG IN & PASSWORD - YOU CAN RETURN TO THIS APPLICATION TO EDIT AND UPLOAD ITEMS AS NEEDED.
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FAIR OVERVIEW
A Tradition of Harvest 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 select agricultural vendors and artisanal food producers to showcase their bounty to a sophisticated audience. Over 15,000 visitors attend annually to experience the village's historic charm, curated demonstrations, and high-quality local provisions.
The Fair began in 1943 as a local fundraiser to preserve the village’s historic Old Mill. Since those early days, it has grown into a premier destination for those seeking an authentic connection to the land and the makers who steward it. Today, your participation directly supports the Waterford Foundation, a 501(c)(3) dedicated to the preservation of this Landmark and the education of the public regarding traditional crafts, history, and rural life.
Why Vend at Waterford?
Premier Demographics: Nestled in the heart of D.C.’s Wine Country, Waterford sits within the most affluent region in the U.S. Loudoun County consistently ranks as the #1 county in America for median household income ($173,655+), with neighboring Fairfax County holding the #2 spot.
A Diverse and Affluent Audience: While many of our loyal attendees specifically seek out the "farm-to-fork" story and heritage provenance, the Fair also serves as a premier destination for the broader D.C. Metro and Northern Virginia area. This provides our vendors with a unique dual opportunity:
- Targeted Exposure: Engage with a dedicated local base that values high-quality, artisanal provisions.
- Regional Reach: Introduce your brand to visitors from across the Mid-Atlantic who travel to Waterford for its "destination" appeal.Unmatched Atmosphere: Unlike a standard parking-lot market, the Fair offers a weekend-long immersion into a historic landscape, supported by an enthusiastic network of villagers and volunteers.
The funds raised by the Waterford Fair support the preservation and education efforts of the Waterford Foundation, a 501(c)(3), to increase the public’s knowledge of life and work in an early American rural community.
Questions? Contact staff at fairadmin@waterfordfoundation.org or 540-882-3018 x 4.
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Waterford, Virginia, United States 
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