MICHIGAN’S PREMIER ART FAIR OVERLOOKS LAKE MICHIGAN
The second weekend of July has been a favorite summer tradition for over six decades. That’s no surprise. This rigorously juried show’s view of Lake Michigan from St. Joseph’s Lake Bluff Park is only rivaled by nearly 200 booths featuring works by some of the finest artists in the U.S. The Krasl Art Fair on the Bluff sponsored by 1st Source Bank Wealth Advisory Services came a long way from its first clothesline art fair in 1962. It now ranks among the top art events in the country.
As you walk along the tree-lined bluff, find booths brimming with paintings, drawings, photographs, jewelry, fibers, glass, wood, metalwork, clay, printmaking and mixed media. This affords a rare opportunity to talk with seasoned and emerging artists about their work.
LOCATION, LOCATION
Besides the view of Lake Michigan, Lake Bluff Park has many advantages over other outdoor art fairs. It is within walking distance of downtown boutique shops, art galleries, restaurants, coffee shops, pizzerias, candy and ice cream stores and craft winery and brewery tasting rooms. Across the street is the Krasl Art Center, and you are just steps from two public beaches, Whirlpool Compass Fountain — one of the biggest splash pads in Michigan, two children’s museums, the Silver Beach Carousel and the Heritage Museum and Cultural Center.
A short drive away are the Benton Harbor Arts District, Roti Roti Art Center in Buchanan and Fernwood Botanical Garden and Nature Center in Niles. On the lakeshore, you will also find galleries to quench your thirst for regionally and nationally acclaimed art.
JOIN US FRIDAY AT THE BLOCK PARTY
You, your family and friends are welcome to join other art lovers at the Krasl Art Center’s annual Block Party on the Friday of Art Fair weekend from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Enjoy live music and food and drinks from local food trucks and vendors. After the party, stay for one of our spectacular sunsets!
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
Sign up for the "Collectors’ Experience" preview hour, 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. on Saturday, for an exclusive early viewing of the artworks.
Free guidebooks, including a map of the artist booths and event information, are available at guest check-ins and in the 4th of July MailMax newspaper.
Here's where to park.
Nearby, public transportation is also available for out-of-town travelers. The Amtrak station below the bluff is just steps from the Art Fair. It offers daily trains between Grand Rapids, Michigan, and Chicago. Boaters can dock at the West Basin Municipal Marina on the St. Joseph River and catch a shuttle to and from downtown St. Joseph.Photography is allowed, but visitors must obtain permission from artists before photographing their works. This respects the artists' rights and helps maintain a respectful environment.
Pets are not allowed within the gated areas of Lake Bluff Park during the event, but leashed dogs may accompany visitors along Lake Boulevard and nearby streets and alleys. Several restaurants and stores welcome your four-legged friends downtown.
The Art Fair maintains a strict policy against weapons, skateboards, bicycles and other items that may pose safety risks.
Art Fair merchandise, including commemorative posters, t-shirts and tote bags featuring artwork by Chris Abigt, will be available for purchase.
PLAN TO STAY OVER — THERE’S MORE FUN TOMORROW
While you can certainly make the Art Fair a day-trip adventure, staying over increases your fun. There are many hotel choices, some downtown and others only a short drive away, with the amenities and rates you want.
The Art Fair is also at a perfect time of year to load up on fresh fruits and vegetables at pick-your-own farms and farmers’ markets, to go on a lighthouse tour and attend summer concerts (most are free). Enjoy Southwest Michigan's vibrant craft beverage scene along the Makers Trail, where you can taste the liquid artistry of locally crafted wines, beers, ciders, and spirits. Take our Trails Challenge or Murals Challenge while you are here and earn prizes. Check our events to know what else is happening in our summer-loving Southwest Michigan. It will be a lot more fun sharing them with you!
