Old Town Art Fair Celebrating 75 Years this June
Chicago’s legendary Old Town Art Fair, now celebrating its 75thAnniversary, returns to the heart of the historic Old Town Triangle Historic District (Main Gate at the intersection of Lincoln and Wisconsin Streets) on Saturday and Sunday, June 14 and 15, 2025. Established in 1948, the Old Town Art Fair is one of Chicago’s oldest juried art fairs and one of the first fine art fairs of its kind in the country.
Organized by the non-profit Old Town Triangle Association and completely volunteer-run, this year’s Fair will be the most festive in its milestone 75-year history, attracting over 230 artists from across the country plus live music on two stages; an array of classic Chicago food and beverage options from local vendors; a dedicated Children’s Corner featuring interactive activities and crafts for kids; and the return of self-guided Garden Walks in over 50 gardens in the Old Town Triangle neighborhood. Annually, the Fair introduces artists to an estimated 30,000 art lovers over the course of the two-day event.
Chris Nelson, Old Town Art Fair 2025 Chair, noted that a record number of artists applied to exhibit this year. “We have world class artists across all media showing with us,” he said. “We continue to expand our search for new exhibitors to ensure talented contemporary and upcoming artists are well represented, bringing a fresh feel to each year that has contributed to the Fair’s longevity and legacy over the past 75 years. From exceptional art to strolling Old Town’s historic gardens, there will be something for everyone to discover in this year’s Fair!”
Selected by a jury of local art professionals, including gallery owners, museum curators, and artists, the Fair features a dynamic mix of artists working across media, including paintings, sculpture, photography, printmaking, ceramics, glass, fiber, jewelry, and more. Over 700 artists apply each year for a coveted spot within the Fair.
Each year, the Old Town Art Fair selects the work of an exhibiting artist for the Art Fair’s commemorative poster. This year’s poster will feature a special commission by a local Chicago artist and long-time Fair contributor in celebration of the landmark anniversary.
The Fair’s exhibitor committee also identifies an annual Emerging Artist to receive a courtesy booth space provided by the Fair at no cost to the artist. This year’s Emerging Artist, Annabelle Sigmond, explores the patterns of nature, human impact on geography, and climate change in her vibrant paintings and illustrations.
Along with the visual art offerings, the Garden Walk–an attendee-favorite year after year–offers visitors the opportunity to tour over 50 gardens, many of which are private and only viewable during the Art Fair. Organizers provide historical information, fun facts, and anecdotes about the homes, architecture, and past and present residents. Old Town’s quaint green spaces make the neighborhood a charming and delightful destination for locals and tourists alike.
For fifty years, two events have been held in Old Town on the second weekend in June; the Old Town Art Fair and the Wells Street Art Festival are separate events.
The Old Town Art Fair will take place, rain or shine, Saturday, June 14, from 10am-7pm, and Sunday, June 15, from 10am-6pm. Proceeds from the suggested donation of $12 for adults (free for children) go directly back into local schools, arts, and cultural programs in the area, including historic and architectural preservation clubs; the Menomonee Club; and the Old Town Triangle Association.
For more information, please visit oldtownartfair.org.
