This guide was researched in spring 2026. Timing below describes when events usually happen, not confirmed dates. For this year's dates, prices and vendor details, see the listed upcoming events or check the organizer's website before you go or apply. How we verify events

Craft Shows & Fairs in Cedar Rapids, Iowa

Cedar Rapids — Iowa's second-largest city and the hub of the Eastern Iowa corridor — runs a craft calendar that stretches from late spring through the holiday season. The Cedar Rapids Downtown Farmers' Market draws about 200 vendors on select Saturdays from late May through September, including artisan sellers. And the NewBo City Market at 1100 3rd Street SE in the Czech Village / New Bohemia district keeps indoor artisan shopping available year-round. With the Amana Colonies about 15 miles southwest and Iowa City about 25 miles south on I-380, Cedar Rapids sits at the center of one of Iowa's richest craft regions.

Cedar Rapids Craft Show Scene

The Sturgis Falls Celebration is often linked with Cedar Rapids, but it is held in Cedar Falls, about 55 miles northwest. Its Arts & Crafts Fair runs on the Sunday of the celebration's late-June weekend (June 26–28 in 2026) around Overman Park.

The Cedar Rapids Downtown Farmers' Market runs on select Saturday mornings from late May through September with about 200 vendors, including artisan and handmade goods booths alongside produce and food vendors. CR Market After Dark (late August; August 29 in 2026) turns the market into an evening event with around 120 vendors.

Hawkeye Downs Expo Center hosts indoor markets through the year, including the Made In Iowa markets (October through April) and Vintage Market Days, with free parking. These shows are a reliable option when outdoor events are out of season.

NewBo City Market at 1100 3rd Street SE is an indoor market operating year-round in the Czech Village / New Bohemia district. It houses artisan vendor booths, local food vendors, and community event space. The district itself — rooted in Cedar Rapids' Czech and Slovak immigrant heritage — has galleries, studios, and artisan shops that make it a natural destination for handmade goods.

KHAK radio documents the Eastern Iowa craft and vendor market scene each season, listing 10+ shows for the spring season alone, with Cedar Rapids featured prominently.

Country Fairs & County Events Near Cedar Rapids

The Linn County Fair (late June) is held in Central City, the county seat approximately 20 miles north of Cedar Rapids. It features 4-H and FFA exhibits, livestock shows, and traditional craft competitions in quilts, needlework, woodworking, and ceramics. Linn County is Iowa's second-most-populous county, and its 4-H program reflects that depth.

Cedar Rapids is also within easy reach of the Iowa State Fair in Des Moines (August, 11 days, ~1 million attendees) — about 115 miles west on I-80.

Best Times to Visit Cedar Rapids for Craft Events

Summer is the peak — the Linn County Fair runs in late June, and the Downtown Farmers' Market runs select Saturdays from late May through September. August brings CR Market After Dark. Fall and winter shift the action indoors to Hawkeye Downs Expo Center and community venues. November and December bring church bazaars, school fundraiser shows, and community center holiday markets throughout the Cedar Rapids metro.

NewBo City Market is open year-round (Wednesday through Sunday), making it a solid option for craft shopping in any season.

Nearby Cities for Craft Shows

Iowa City — ~25 miles south on I-380; Holiday Thieves Market (December, 50+ year tradition); Summer of the Arts downtown events
Amana Colonies — ~15 miles southwest; living craft heritage; Amana Woolen Mill; Festival of the Arts; year-round artisan shops
Dubuque — ~75 miles northeast; DubuqueFest Fine Arts Festival (August, 50+ juried artists); Historic Millwork District
Des Moines — ~115 miles west; Iowa State Fairgrounds year-round craft shows

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the best craft shows in Cedar Rapids?

The Cedar Rapids Downtown Farmers' Market (select Saturdays, late May-September, about 200 vendors) is the premier outdoor market. Hawkeye Downs Expo Center hosts the Made In Iowa markets from October through April. NewBo City Market in New Bohemia offers indoor shopping Wednesday through Sunday.

When do craft shows happen in Cedar Rapids?

The outdoor season runs May through September, anchored by the Downtown Farmers' Market. CR Market After Dark runs in late August. Hawkeye Downs hosts indoor craft shows through fall and winter. The Linn County Fair is in late June. Holiday markets fill churches, schools, and community centers from November through December.

Are there country fairs near Cedar Rapids?

The Linn County Fair (late June, Central City) is the local county fair with 4-H and FFA exhibits and handmade competitions. The Iowa State Fair in Des Moines (~115 miles west) runs 11 days in August. The Johnson County Fair serves the Iowa City area about 25 miles south, and the Dubuque County Fair runs in late July-early August.

Find Events in Cedar Rapids

CraftShow Events covers craft shows, artisan fairs, and market listings in Cedar Rapids and across Eastern Iowa. Search by date and event type to find Hawkeye Downs shows, farmers' market dates, holiday bazaars, and everything in between.