Artisan Markets in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania's artisan market scene is anchored by two of the most significant craft events on the East Coast: the Philadelphia Museum of Art Contemporary Craft Show (50th annual in 2026, ~195 artists at the Pennsylvania Convention Center) and the Christkindlmarkt in Bethlehem (150+ artisans, one of the top Christmas markets in the US). The PA Guild of Craftsmen, established in 1946 and headquartered in Lancaster, is one of the largest craft organizations in the nation.
Pittsburgh's indie craft identity runs through Handmade Arcade at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center, while the Lititz Craft Show in Lancaster County draws 700+ crafters — making it one of the largest craft shows on the East Coast. Pennsylvania's craft culture benefits from deep Pennsylvania Dutch traditions, a strong guild system, and active maker communities in both major metros.
Top Artisan Market Events
- Philadelphia Museum of Art Contemporary Craft Show — Pennsylvania Convention Center, November; 50th annual in 2026; ~195 artists; 10,000+ attendees
- Christkindlmarkt Bethlehem — SteelStacks campus, Bethlehem; November-December; 150+ artisans; one of the top Christmas markets in the US
- Handmade Arcade — David L. Lawrence Convention Center, Pittsburgh; annual holiday indie craft fair; 150+ makers
- Lititz Craft Show — Lititz, Lancaster County; 700+ crafters; one of the largest craft shows on the East Coast
- Rittenhouse Square Spring Fine Craft Show — Philadelphia; May; 150+ artisans in one of Philly's most iconic public squares
What to Expect
Pennsylvania artisan markets range from nationally ranked juried fine craft shows to indie maker markets and holiday bazaars. The Philadelphia Museum of Art Craft Show sets the bar for fine craft, with 195 artists screened through a competitive jury process. Bethlehem's Christkindlmarkt draws on Moravian heritage for a European-style holiday artisan market. Pittsburgh's Handmade Arcade emphasizes indie and contemporary craft with a holiday focus.
The PA Guild of Craftsmen runs juried shows at Foundry 48 in Lititz (June) and the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center in Oaks (October). Pottery, jewelry, fiber arts, woodworking, glass, and fine art are consistent across all major shows. The Lehigh Valley Fiber Festival in Allentown serves the state's strong fiber arts community. Many events charge admission ($5-15 for juried shows), while indie markets and pop-ups tend to be free.
Popular Cities for Artisan Markets
- Philadelphia — Museum of Art Craft Show, Rittenhouse Square shows; robust contemporary craft scene
- Pittsburgh — Handmade Arcade, A Fair in the Park at Mellon Park; I Made It! Market
- Lancaster — Lititz Craft Show, PA Guild of Craftsmen headquarters, Heart of Lancaster show
- Bethlehem — Christkindlmarkt at SteelStacks; Moravian craft heritage
For a full overview of craft events in the state, visit the Pennsylvania craft shows page.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Philadelphia Museum of Art Craft Show?
It is one of the premier fine craft shows in the United States, held each November at the Pennsylvania Convention Center. The 50th annual show runs in 2026, featuring approximately 195 juried artists working in ceramics, fiber, glass, jewelry, metal, mixed media, and wood. Expect 10,000+ attendees over the multi-day event.
Are there holiday artisan markets in Pennsylvania?
Yes, extensively. The Christkindlmarkt in Bethlehem (150+ artisans, November-December) is one of the top Christmas markets in the country. Handmade Arcade in Pittsburgh is a major holiday indie craft fair. The Philadelphia Museum of Art Craft Show runs in November. Holiday markets appear throughout the Lehigh Valley, Lancaster County, and both major metros.
Where can I find Amish-made crafts in Pennsylvania?
Lancaster County is the center. Amish and Mennonite craftspeople sell handmade quilts, furniture, baskets, and baked goods at roadside stands, local markets, and shops throughout the region. The PA Guild of Craftsmen, headquartered in Lancaster, also connects visitors to certified fine craft artisans in the area. The Lititz Craft Show (700+ crafters) is nearby.