Art Spectacular is a multi-experience festival of art, music and children’s programs. Founded by Rees Carillon Society Board Member, Barb Walker, Art Spectacular is a professionally juried fine art and craft show featuring collector- and museum-quality works of art and crafts. Over two days, Art Spectacular attracts approximately 5,500 to 6,500 attendees. The 50 participating artists are among the region's and nation’s most recognized artists and artisans. Art Spectacular was ranked #44 in "The Best 200 Art Fairs in the United States" in 2016 by Sunshine Artist Magazine – the only art fair in Central Illinois included in the “Best 200”. Works of art and crafts range from $50 to $7,500. In addition to a silent auction and gift basket raffle, the event features hourly carillon performances and other performances by local musicians.
Saturday, September 8, 2018 | 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Sunday, September 9, 2018 | 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
(Held annually on the 2nd weekend of September)
Admission: | Art Fair – Free | Kids’ Place - $2/child
Free Parking in the Park and surrounding side streets.
2018 Call for Artists: Page 1 | Page 2
The Mission: If you’re looking for an art fair that is loved by artists and patrons, with great amenities, awesome volunteers, reasonable fees, and an on-site, available producer, then consider applying to Art Spectacular at the Carillon! We cater to artists! Ranked in the “200 Best Art Fairs in the United States” in 2015 and 2017 – and #44 in 2016 - by Sunshine Artist Magazine, Art Spectacular is the only art fair in Central Illinois included in the “200 Best”. Art Spectacular at the Carillon is held annually on the second weekend of September on the lawn of Washington Park in Springfield, IL. Art Spectacular is professionally juried for quality and balance in Fine Art and Fine Craft. Washington Park is next to a wealthy neighborhood of art-buying, appreciative and knowledgeable patrons who love Art Spectacular and provides a beautiful, aesthetically pleasing venue. Art Spectacular is extensively advertised in newspapers, TV, radio, billboards, patron invitations, newsletters, websites, signs, posters, flyers, e-mail, social media, and sponsors. 6,000 patrons from Central Illinois love this art fair for its size, quality of artwork, and balance of media. Featuring up to 50 artists, Art Spectacular also features a preview sale, patron bucks, demos, Kids' Place, Kids' Art Sale, Music, Food Vendor, Silent Auction and Gift Basket Raffle. Springfield is home to 4 universities, a community college, a school of medicine, a large medical community, the IL State Capitol, and the President Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum. Art Spectacular is a fundraiser for the world-class 67-bell carillon in Washington Park, the 5th largest carillon in the world.
Only Service Animals Allowed.