Kalamazoo’s free summer art bonanza gets bigger for its 75th round
Two Days. 145 Artists. One Iconic Park.
For 75 years, Bronson Park has pulsed with creativity during the Kalamazoo Art Fair, the city’s longest-running celebration of art, culture, and connection. This June 5-6, the milestone event transforms into a vibrant two-day extravaganza, where 145 creators bring their visions to life across 12 distinct art zones—from glassblowing to jewelry-making.
No tickets. No barriers. Just pure inspiration.
🎨 What Awaits You
🖌️ A Fair Like No Other
- Real-time artistry: Watch master potters shape clay before your eyes, goldsmiths craft intricate pieces, and painters bring canvases to life.
- Fresh finds (and familiar favorites): Stroll through aisles brimming with one-of-a-kind sculptures, hand-woven textiles, and avant-garde pieces you won’t find anywhere else.
- Tastes of the town: Fuel up at local food trucks, serving everything from gourmet bites to sweet indulgences.
- Live beats under the sky: Catch performances by Theatre Kalamazoo, Dylan Tolbert, and a mystery set from Payton & Annabelle, all curated with Sounds of the Zoo.
🏆 A New Tradition: People’s Choice Awards
This year, the fair introduces a People’s Choice Award, where visitors vote Friday (through 8 p.m.) and winners are announced Saturday morning. Categories include:
- Best New Artist
- Most Creative Medium
- Fan Favorite Piece
Cash prizes go to the winners—your voice shapes the fair’s legacy.
🛠️ Hands-On Creativity
Want to try it yourself? The Kirk Newman Art School hosts mini workshops where you can:
- Take a brush to canvas under expert guidance.
- Hammer your own copper pendant—keep what you make.
- Explore digital and traditional techniques in real time.
📍 When & Where 📅 Friday, June 5: 3 p.m. – 8 p.m. 📅 Saturday, June 6: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. 📍 Bronson Park, Downtown Kalamazoo
🚶 No ticket needed. Just show up and soak it in.
