Chicago’s legendary Old Town Art Fair returns to the heart of the historic Old Town Triangle Historic District (Main Gate at the intersection of Lincoln and Wisconsin Streets) on Saturday and Sunday, June 13 and 14, 2026. Established in 1948, the Old Town Art Fair is one of Chicago’s oldest juried art fairs and one of the first fine art fairs of its kind in the country. For fifty years, two events have been held in Old Town on the second weekend in June; the Old Town Art Fair and the Wells Street Art Festival are separate events.
Organized by the non-profit Old Town Triangle Association and completely volunteer-run, this year’s Fair will be the most festive in its milestone 76-year history, attracting over 230 artists from across the country plus live music on two stages; an array of classic Chicago food and beverage options from local vendors; a dedicated Children’s Corner featuring interactive activities and crafts for kids; and the return of self-guided Garden Walks in over 50 gardens in the Old Town Triangle neighborhood. Annually, the Fair introduces artists to an estimated 30,000 art lovers over the course of the two-day event.
Matthew Langer, Old Town Art Fair 2026 Chair, says, “I couldn’t be more excited to join as this year’s Chair of such an incredible gem of arts and culture in our great city. After breaking records at our 75th annual fair last year, we look forward to returning bigger and better this year… there will be something for everyone to discover in this year’s Fair!”
The Old Town Art Fair will take place, rain or shine, Saturday, June 13, from 10am-7pm, and Sunday, June 14, from 10am-6pm. Proceeds from the suggested donation of $13 for adults (free for children) go directly back into local schools, arts, and cultural programs in the area, including historic and architectural preservation clubs; the Menomonee Club; and the Old Town Triangle Association.
Selected by a jury of local art professionals, including gallery owners, museum curators, and artists, the Fair features a dynamic mix of artists working across media, including paintings, sculpture, photography, printmaking, ceramics, glass, fiber, jewelry, and more. Over 700 artists apply each year for a coveted spot within the Fair.
Along with the visual art offerings, the Garden Walk--an attendee-favorite year after year--offers visitors the opportunity to tour over 50 gardens, many of which are private and only viewable during the Art Fair. Organizers provide historical information, fun facts, and anecdotes about the homes, architecture, and past and present residents. Old Town’s quaint green spaces make the neighborhood a charming and delightful destination for locals and tourists alike.
For more information, please visit oldtownartfair.org or follow along on Instagram and Facebook.
ABOUT THE OLD TOWN TRIANGLE ASSOCIATION
The Old Town Triangle Association (OTTA) is a community-based, not-for-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for neighbors in the historic Old Town Triangle District on Chicago’s north side. The OTTA hosts the Old Town Art Fair along with many other neighborhood initiatives and works to maintain the historic, landmarked buildings that make Old Town a unique and wonderful community. The “Triangle Building” at 1763 N. North Park serves as OTTA’s community center, meeting place, and neighborhood resource.
Images: Old Town Art Fair 2025, Photos by Patrick Mal