Craft Shows & Fairs in Buffalo, New York

Buffalo has a long tradition of outdoor arts festivals and craft markets, anchored by events that have been running for decades in its distinctive neighborhoods. The city's creative economy has grown alongside its waterfront revival, and Western New York's artisan community maintains a steady presence in Elmwood Village, Larkinville, and Canalside.

Buffalo's Craft Show Scene

The Allentown Art Festival is one of Western New York's oldest and most respected outdoor art events, running since 1958 along the streets of the Allentown neighborhood. The festival is juried and covers fine art and craft across a full range of media — ceramics, jewelry, painting, photography, fiber, and woodwork — each June.

The Buffalo Arts & Craft Festival runs in August, now in its 43rd year, with more than 150 art and craft vendors. Food vendors and the neighborhood setting make it a full day's outing.

For the holiday season:

• Queen City Market — Seneca One Tower (1 Seneca St); one curated December day; artisan crafters and vintage sellers from Western New York
• Buffalo Holiday Market — highlights local artisans, crafters, and specialty food vendors throughout December

The Buffalo Saturday Artisan Market operates seasonally at Canalside on the revitalized waterfront. The West Seneca East Fall Artisan & Craft Show rounds out the suburban fall calendar.

Country Fairs & County Events Near Buffalo

The Erie County Fair in Hamburg (~15 miles south) is consistently ranked among the largest county fairs in the United States. Held in mid-to-late August, it features:

• Livestock competitions and agricultural exhibits
• Carnival midway
• Substantial craft and vendor area
• 4-H programming through Cornell Cooperative Extension of Erie County

The Niagara County Fair in Lockport (~25 miles northeast) runs in July as a traditional-scale agricultural fair.

Best Times to Visit Buffalo for Craft Events

Spring sees some church and community bazaars, but the primary outdoor season is June-August.

Nearby Cities for Craft Shows

• Niagara Falls, NY — ~22 miles north; tourist-oriented craft and artisan vendors
• Rochester, NY — ~75 miles east; Corn Hill Arts Festival (July), Monroe County Fair, Roc Artists Open Market at Innovation Square
• Batavia, NY — ~38 miles east; Genesee County county fair

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the best craft shows in Buffalo, NY?

The Allentown Art Festival (June) and the Buffalo Arts & Craft Festival (August) are the two flagship outdoor events. The Queen City Market at Seneca One in December is the most curated single-day indoor show. Buffalo Saturday Artisan Market at Canalside is the most consistent summer outdoor option.

When do craft shows happen in Buffalo?

Primary outdoor season: June (Allentown Art Festival) through August (Buffalo Arts & Craft Festival, Erie County Fair in Hamburg). Holiday craft markets run November-December. Queen City Market is a one-day December event.

Are there country fairs near Buffalo?

Yes. Erie County Fair in Hamburg (~15 miles south) is one of the largest in the US, running mid-to-late August. Niagara County Fair in Lockport (~25 miles northeast) runs in July.

Is there a handmade market scene in Buffalo?

Buffalo's handmade market scene has grown with the city's revitalization. Elmwood Village has independent maker and artisan boutiques year-round. Larkinville in South Buffalo supports a creative community, and the Buffalo Saturday Artisan Market at Canalside brings vendors to the waterfront seasonally.

Find Events in Buffalo

Search CraftShow Events for current craft shows, artisan markets, and county fairs in and around Buffalo, NY. Filter by season or event type to plan your Western New York craft calendar.