We don’t want to be dramatic, but there’s only one right way to kick off summer: with stunning craft and artisan work, live demos + all the artsy fun at the 2023 Berea Craft Festival.

Happening Friday, July 7-Sunday July 9 (Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.), the festival has something for everyone.

Bonus: Berea is just 45 minutes from Lexington, AKA the perfect summer Friday road trip destination.

Here are four things to look forward to:

Seeing stunning work by 110+ artists and craftsmen

The Berea Craft Festival will showcase artists working across a variety of mediums, including metal, textiles, wood, ceramics, fiber + more. Read: Whatever kind of art you’re most interested in will be there — plus plenty of opportunities to discover new favorites.

Live demonstrations

If you’ve always wanted to see how master artists throw pottery, blacksmith metal, or crimp fine jewelry, then you’re in luck. Berea’s live demonstrations allow attendees to observe the artistic process for themselves, up close and personal, as artist schedules permit.

Fine textile weaving is just one of dozens of types of art that the festival showcases. | Photo by Visit Berea

Live entertainment

The strolling performers are one of the most unique aspectsof the Berea Craft Festival. While browsing artist booths, attendees can also enjoy live music performed by local musicians strolling through the festival.

Younger kids will love the craft tent. | Photo by Visit Berea

Shopping in the Old Town Artisan Village

It’s not an arts festival if you don’t bring home souvenirs. After checking out the festival, don’t miss making a pit stop at the shops in the Old Town Artisan Village to continue the fun. Berea is the Folk Arts and Crafts Capital of Kentucky for a reason.

Interested? Tickets ($6 for adults, $5 for seniors) are available at the gate. Kids under 12 get in free, and friendly dogs on a leash are welcome to tag along. Parking is also free.

See you there, Lexington.*