The Crozet Arts and Crafts Festival, held twice a year in May and October, is one of Central Virginia’s most beloved family events. Nestled at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains at Claudius Crozet Park, the festival brings together more than 120 juried artisans from across the country, along with food trucks, live music, and interactive activities that delight children and adults alike. (You can even bring pets, on a leash, of course.)
Whether your family is full of budding artists or simply enjoys a fun day outdoors, this festival offers a joyful way to spend time together while supporting the arts. Many families consider this an annual Mother’s Day tradition or pair it with leaf peeping in the fall.
AT A GLANCE:
- The Crozet Arts & Crafts Festival is held twice a year, in May and October, at the Claudius Crozet Park in Crozet, Virginia.
- The outdoor festival is family-friendly, featuring not only a juried art show but also hands-on kids’ activities, live music, and local food vendors.
- Proceeds from the festival support Claudius Crozet Park, which is a community-owned, nonprofit local park.
- Tickets for the Crozet Arts & Crafts Festival can be purchased at the gate or online.
When and Where To Visit the Crozet Arts and Crafts Festival
The Festival is held twice each year: once in the spring and once in the fall. Both events take place at Claudius Crozet Park in Crozet, Virginia. This scenic outdoor venue offers both open green space and large event tents, so families can enjoy the festival rain or shine.
Spring dates: May 10–11, 2025
Fall dates: October 11-12, 2025
Check the schedule for times and details: crozetfestival.com
Looking for more family-friendly local activities? Check out our favorite spring festivals and some of the most popular annual events in Charlottesville and Albemarle County.
Family-Friendly Highlights
Families attending the Crozet Arts & Crafts Festival will find more than just art booths. The event is thoughtfully curated with young visitors in mind, making it an ideal day trip from Charlottesville.
Hands-On Kids’ Activities
Each festival features a Kids’ Area with activities that vary each season, such as art projects, face painting, and creative crafts. You’ll find storytelling by Kim & Jimbo Cary, a music-making station, a bounce house, and more!
Live Music
The festival also includes a full lineup of live music performances. Many families enjoy relaxing on the grass while listening to local musicians and regional bands, including the Western Albemarle High School Band and Jazz Band!
Delicious Local Eats
You can bring your own food, or enjoy treats from local food trucks and vendors such as gourmet grilled cheese, tacos, kettle corn, and homemade ice cream. Many food vendors offer kid-friendly portions, as well as vegetarian and allergy-conscious options.
Art for All Ages at the Crozet Arts & Crafts Festival
The star of the festival is, of course, the high-quality, handcrafted art. Visitors can explore fine art and functional creations in a wide range of media: glass, pottery, textiles, wood, leather, photography, jewelry, and more.
It’s a wonderful opportunity to introduce children to the world of fine arts in a welcoming, open-air setting. Many artists are happy to share their process and answer questions, which can be especially engaging for curious young minds.
What Does “Juried” Mean At an Art Show?
One of the things that sets the Crozet Arts & Crafts Festival apart is that it’s a juried art show. A juried show is a carefully curated event in which artists must apply and have their work evaluated by a panel of experts before being accepted. This process ensures that all participating artisans meet high standards for originality, craftsmanship, and presentation.
For festival-goers, this means you can expect to see top-quality, handmade art in every booth—whether it’s a beautifully turned wooden bowl, a handwoven scarf, or a one-of-a-kind painting. It also makes the festival a wonderful place to teach children the value of creativity, dedication, and skilled work.
When your family strolls through the rows of artist tents, you’re not just browsing—you’re experiencing a celebration of excellence in American craft.
Rebecca Grow, a mixed-media artist known for her handcrafted boxes, shares:
“Participating in a juried festival like Crozet is truly an honor. The jury process ensures that all artists meet high standards, which elevates the overall quality of the event. It’s inspiring to be among such talented artisans and to share our work with families who appreciate fine craftsmanship.”
Crozet Arts & Crafts Festival Insider Tips for Parents
Navigating a crowded public event like an art festival with small kids can be a challenge. Luckily, we’ve pulled together our best tips to help your family have an amazing experience.
- Bring a stroller or wagon if you have little ones—paths are stroller-friendly, and there’s plenty of ground to cover.
- Come early to beat the crowds and find close parking.
- Pack sunscreen and hats for sunny days and a light jacket for the mountain breeze.
- Don’t forget to bring cash and cards. Most vendors accept credit, but some smaller booths and food vendors may prefer cash.
- Label your child’s bag and water bottle just in case they get misplaced during the day
Supporting Community & Creativity
The Crozet Arts & Crafts Festival isn’t just a fun seasonal event for families. It’s also a fundraiser for the nonprofit, community-owned Claudius Crozet Park. Proceeds from the event go toward supporting improvements and maintenance for the park’s recreational facilities, which serve families year-round.
By attending, families are not only enjoying a fun weekend together but also investing in the local community and helping the arts thrive.
Family Packing List for the Crozet Arts & Crafts Festival
Essentials:
- Tickets or confirmation email (if purchased online)
- Wallet with cash and cards
- Reusable water bottles
- Sunscreen
- Hats or visors
- Sunglasses
- Lightweight jackets or layers (weather can change quickly)
For Families with Young Children:
- Stroller or wagon (paths are stroller-friendly!)
- Diaper bag or backpack with wipes, diapers, and a change of clothes
- Snacks and drinks
- Favorite comfort item or toy
- Small blanket for picnicking or music time
- Noise-canceling headphones (for little ones who may be sensitive to sound)
Festival-Friendly Extras:
- Picnic blanket or foldable chairs
- Hand sanitizer
- Wet wipes or napkins
- Shopping tote or bag for art purchases
- Notepad and crayons for kids to “sketch like the artists”
- Dog leash and waste bags (if bringing your pup!)
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT THE CROZET ARTS & CRAFTS FESTIVAL
Where can I park at the Crozet Art Festival?
There is free parking on-site with overflow areas, and volunteers will be there to guide you. However, we recommend coming early to get a closer parking spot if you can!
How can I get tickets for the Crozet Arts & Crafts Festival?
Tickets are available online and at the gate. Children under 12 attend free; there are discounts for military families and those age 65 and over.
Is the Crozet Art Festival pet-friendly?
Pets are welcome at the festival as long as they are leashed and will be well-behaved. If your pet will be agitated by a large crowd, however, you might want to consider leaving them at home.
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