Craft Shows & Fairs in Syracuse, New York

Syracuse is home to the New York State Fairgrounds in the adjacent town of Geddes — one of the most active fairgrounds complexes in the state and the site of multiple craft-specific shows throughout the year. The city also has a deep community craft tradition through the Plowshares Craftsfair and Peace Festival, now in its 55th year.

Syracuse's Craft Show Scene

The Country Folk Art Show & Artisan Market operates multiple times per year at the NYS Fairgrounds Horticulture Building:

• Spring: March/April
• Fall: October 16-18, 2026
• December: holiday edition

Each edition brings approximately 150 juried exhibitors offering handcrafted furniture, quilts, jewelry, candles, soaps, and home decor. Admission is modest and parking is available at the fairgrounds.

The Plowshares Craftsfair and Peace Festival has run annually since 1971, organized by the Syracuse Peace Council. It typically features 120+ local vendors and community organizations, with pottery, jewelry, clothing, and art alongside live music and dance performances. The combination of craft shopping and community programming gives it a distinct character.

The Christmas Craft & Holiday Market at the New York State Fairgrounds runs in December with handmade gifts, decorations, and seasonal goods. Indoor fairgrounds spaces make it viable regardless of weather.

The Great New York State Fair

The Great New York State Fair at the NYS Fairgrounds in Geddes runs 13 days in late August, drawing 1+ million attendees. It is not a craft show in the traditional sense, but its vendor area includes craft and handmade sellers and the Horticulture Building hosts craft-focused programming during the fair.

Hotel availability across Onondaga County tightens significantly during the 13-day run.

County Fairs Near Syracuse

Adjacent county fairs accessible from Syracuse:

• Madison County Fair — Brookfield (~30 miles east); traditional agricultural fair
• Cayuga County Fair — Moravia (~35 miles south)
• Oswego County Fair — Sandy Creek (~40 miles north)

Best Times to Visit Syracuse for Craft Events

Nearby Cities for Craft Shows

• Ithaca, NY — ~60 miles south; Ithaca Farmers Market, Ithaca Artists Market, Ithaca Festival
• Utica, NY — ~55 miles east; Mohawk Valley craft events
• Skaneateles, NY — ~20 miles southwest; Finger Lakes village with artisan boutiques

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the best craft shows in Syracuse, NY?

The Country Folk Art Show & Artisan Market (multiple dates at NYS Fairgrounds Horticulture Building) is the most consistent craft-specific show. The Plowshares Craftsfair (November) is the longest-running community craft event. The Christmas Craft & Holiday Market at the fairgrounds is the December option.

When do craft shows happen in Syracuse?

Country Folk Art Show: spring (March/April), fall (October), December. Plowshares Craftsfair: November. Christmas Craft & Holiday Market: December. Great New York State Fair (which includes craft vendors): 13 days in late August.

Are there country fairs near Syracuse?

The Great New York State Fair in Geddes is the dominant event. For traditional county fairs: Madison County Fair (Brookfield, ~30 miles east), Cayuga County Fair (Moravia, ~35 miles south), and Oswego County Fair (Sandy Creek, ~40 miles north).

Is there a handmade market scene in Syracuse?

Syracuse has a steady community craft scene through the Plowshares Craftsfair and the fairgrounds shows. Syracuse University's College of Visual and Performing Arts contributes to the local creative community. Armory Square has galleries and boutiques.

Find Events in Syracuse

Search CraftShow Events for craft shows, artisan markets, and fair events in Syracuse, NY and Central New York. Check the calendar for Country Folk Art Show dates and upcoming NYS Fairgrounds events.