Applications open now for 2026 Guildhall Craft Fair
9 July 2026
Applications have opened for the 2026 Guildhall Craft Fair with designer-makers, artists and artisan food producers from across Ireland invited to take part in the long established festive showcase.
Held from Friday November 13th to Sunday November 15th 2026, the Craft Fair is recognised as one of the country’s most prestigious exhibitions of handmade craft and design.
Each year it attracts thousands of visitors to the city’s historic Guildhall in search of unique, handcrafted gifts and seasonal purchases.
Around 43 exhibitors will be selected through a highly competitive assessment process that seeks to recognise excellence in craftsmanship, originality and innovation.
Organisers are seeking applications from both returning exhibitors and first-time applicants, ensuring the event continues to offer visitors a varied mix of established favourites alongside new makers.
“The Guildhall Craft Fair has built an outstanding reputation within the craft sector because of its commitment to showcasing high-quality handmade work created on the island of Ireland,” said Events Co-ordinator at Derry City and Strabane District Council Helena Hasson.
“Each year we receive applications from exceptionally talented makers, making the selection process extremely competitive.
“We’re always keen to welcome new exhibitors alongside returning favourites, helping to keep the event fresh, inspiring and exciting for visitors.
“If you’re a craft designer-maker or artist producing original handmade work, we’d encourage you to apply.
“The event offers an excellent opportunity to showcase your work to thousands of visitors in one of the most iconic venues in the North West.”
Applications are invited from designer-makers and artists working across a wide range of disciplines including ceramics, jewellery, textiles, knitwear, leather, printmaking, wood, lighting, furniture and product design, glass, metalwork, basket-making and other contemporary craft disciplines.
Food producers are invited to take part in the Artisan Food Fair, which takes place in the Guildhall’s Whittaker Suite.
Social Enterprise Northern Ireland are also offering two social enterprises in Northern Ireland the opportunity to have stands at the event as part of the Social Economy Work Programme they deliver on behalf of the Department for the Economy.
The Guildhall Craft Fair has earned its reputation as a highlight of the craft calendar thanks to its rigorous selection process.
Only original handmade work created on the island of Ireland is accepted with no imported or bought-in products permitted.
Applications are assessed on the quality of workmanship, originality, skill and the overall range of products on offer.
First-time applicants are required to submit physical samples of their work for assessment, while previous exhibitors must provide recent images of the products they intend to exhibit.
Applicants are also asked to demonstrate high standards of presentation and a commitment to sustainable practices wherever possible.
The closing date for applications, together with any required samples, is 12 noon on Wednesday 5th August 2026.
Application forms and full guidance for exhibitors are available now at www.derrystrabane.com/CraftFairApplications