Art in the Park Fine Art & Craft Fair

Flat Iron Park transforms into an outdoor gallery for one summer weekend when juried artists and crafters line the Lake Geneva shoreline with paintings, photography, jewelry, ceramics, woodwork, and textiles that range from affordable prints to investment pieces. The lakefront setting means you’re browsing between cool breezes off the water, and the quality bar is high since exhibitors go through a selection process that prioritizes original work over mass-produced items. You’ll find everything from plein air paintings of Geneva Lake to hand-forged metal sculptures, all displayed under white tents that stretch along the park.

The fair typically happens on a Saturday and Sunday in mid-July, running 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days. Admission is free, parking downtown fills early (arrive before 11 a.m. or use the free trolley from overflow lots), and credit cards work at most booths though cash moves faster for smaller purchases. July in southern Wisconsin means heat and humidity (mid-80s to low 90s), so bring sunscreen, a hat, and plan to duck into air-conditioned downtown shops between browsing sessions. The park has shade trees, but most vendor booths sit in full sun.

Turn this into a full lake weekend by booking a waterfront rental on Lake.com within walking distance of downtown. Browse art in the morning when it’s cooler, retreat to your rental or the lake for midday swimming and paddling, then return to the fair in late afternoon when crowds thin and artists are more available to talk about their work. Local spots like Sprecher’s Restaurant & Pub (since 1985) or Simple Café (since 2009) provide lunch breaks between art sessions. The combination of cultural browsing and water time makes for a July weekend that satisfies both your creative side and your need to cool off.