2026 Juried Demonstrating Artisan

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.

Full terms and conditions are outlined in the event prospectus, which can be found in the "related files" section of this application.

• Insurance:
  • Liability Coverage: Artisans must provide a Certificate of Insurance (COI) for $1M, naming the Waterford Foundation (PO Box 142, Waterford VA 20197) as "Additional Insured". If needed, short-term coverage is available via ACT Insurance (actinsurance.com).
    • By August, 15, 2026, mail (address above) or email (fairadmin@waterfordfoundation.org) the COI to the Fair office.
  • Loss & Damage: The Waterford Foundation, Inc. is not responsible for the loss or damage of any artisan’s work; we strongly recommend securing inventory insurance.
• Cancellations: Email written notice by August 29, 2026 (5:00 PM) for a refund, minus a $50 fee. No refunds are provided after this date.
• Weather: Waterford Fair is a rain-or-shine event; no refunds are given for inclement weather.
• Force Majeure: Neither party shall be liable for delays caused by events beyond reasonable control (natural disasters, pandemics, government actions).

Agreement: Booth/tent fee payment constitutes an agreement to abide by all guidelines in this prospectus.