Payette Lakes Fine Art & Craft Fair

The Payette Lakes Fine Art & Craft Fair, often affectionately referred to as the Handmade Artesian Festival of the Arts, is a beloved annual event that has been a cornerstone of McCall, Idaho’s cultural landscape for over 30 years. This outdoor, juried fine arts extravaganza is designed for a diverse and vibrant audience, including families, art enthusiasts, music lovers, and anyone with a penchant for unique handmade crafts and local culture.

At its heart, the event is for everyone who appreciates the beauty of handmade art and the joy of community gatherings. Families can stroll through the fair, discovering eclectic gifts and treasures that range from log furniture and oil paintings to metalwork, stained glass, pottery, and intricate fiber arts. Music lovers will be treated to live performances that add a lively ambiance to the entire experience. Foodies will delight in the variety of food vendors scattered under shaded picnic areas, offering a diverse array of local culinary delights.

The event is scheduled to take place on August 16th and 17th, 2025. On Saturday, the fair will be open from 9 AM to 5 PM, and on Sunday, it will run from 10 AM to 4 PM. While there are no grand fireworks displays or parades, the consistent flow of live music and the interactive nature of the art exhibits make every moment special. There are no headliner performances announced, but the continuous live music and the chance to engage directly with over 75 artists from across the country are significant highlights.

The fair is held at Gold Glove Park in McCall, Idaho, a picturesque setting nestled near the golf course on Davis Creek. McCall, situated in the heart of Idaho, is a scenic town surrounded by the natural beauty of Payette Lake and the surrounding mountains. To get to McCall, visitors can fly into the Boise Airport and then take a scenic drive of about two and a half hours via Highway 55. Local transportation options are also available, making it accessible for both locals and tourists. The park itself offers ample parking and is easily navigable on foot.

The Payette Lakes Fine Art & Craft Fair is an event that should not be missed, offering a unique blend of art, culture, and community spirit. The opportunity to talk directly with artists and purchase their work adds a personal touch that is hard to find in larger, more commercial venues. The fair’s setting, with its shaded areas and views of the nearby golf course, provides a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere. Live music plays continuously, enhancing the lively yet laid-back vibe of the event.

One of the standout features of the fair is the variety of handmade crafts on display. Visitors can find everything from intricately crafted log furniture to delicate stained glass pieces, each one a testament to the skill and creativity of the artists. The food vendors offer a range of local delicacies, allowing attendees to sample the best of Idaho’s culinary scene under the shade of picnic areas.

In essence, the Payette Lakes Fine Art & Craft Fair is a celebration of art, music, and local culture set against the stunning backdrop of McCall’s natural beauty. It is an event that brings people together, fosters creativity, and provides an unforgettable experience for all who attend. Whether you are an art aficionado, a music enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates unique handmade crafts, this fair is a must-visit destination.