Exciting News: Creative Avenue Summer MakersFest Market is coming to La Conner

Summer MakersFest is Returning!

I’ve been feeling that itch again.

If you’ve been around Creative Avenue for a while, you probably know what I mean. The markets, the energy, the people showing up and connecting over something they made or found.

Starting in 2021, I hosted monthly artisan markets around Skagit Valley. Those days were full in the best way. Talented artists, real conversations, and a little bit of organized chaos that somehow always worked.

Since closing the Creative Hub storefront, I’ve taken some time to figure out what this next chapter looks like.

And I keep coming back to this.

I love creating spaces where artists can share their work and people can actually connect with it.

So… Summer MakersFest is back.

A Summer Market in La Conner

This year’s Summer MakersFest will be held at Maple Hall in La Conner.

If you’ve spent any time in La Conner during the summer, you know the vibe. People are out walking, popping into shops, grabbing ice cream, and spending time near the waterfront.

It’s the kind of place where you can make a day out of it, which is exactly what I want this market to be.

An easy stop that turns into staying longer than you planned.

What You'll Find

Summer MakersFest is a curated indoor artisan market featuring 40+ artists and makers from around Skagit County and beyond.

You’ll find:

• Handmade goods across a mix of mediums

• Small batch and locally made products

• A range of price points, whether you’re browsing or shopping with intention

This isn’t a quick in-and-out market.

It’s a wander, a conversation, and those moments where you find something you didn’t expect.

Looking Back at our Last MakersFest in 2023

The last Summer MakersFest we hosted in 2023 at the Port of Anacortes was one of those experiences that just worked.

We had a strong mix of vendors, a steady flow of shoppers, and people actually stayed. It felt full without feeling crowded, and there was a lot of real connection happening throughout the day.

That’s the energy I’m building on this year. And while I absolutely loved hosting at the Port, they closed to the public - leaving me on the hunt for an equally amazing venue in our area. I feel so fortunate to have discovered Maple Hall and that it was available for a full day!

Check out all of the pictures from our last MakersFest here - all taken by the talented photographer, Abbie Kunch.

For Artists + Makers

If you’re an artist or maker interested in joining, applications for Summer MakersFest are now open.

This is a curated market, and I’m intentional about the mix of vendors so it’s a good experience on both sides, for the artists and for the people coming to shop.

If you’re applying, take your time. Clear photos and thoughtful answers go a long way.

You can find details and apply here: https://www.creativeavenuenw.com/summermakersfest

Applications close April 20th, 2026.

Why These Markets Matter

These markets have never just been about selling.

They’re about meeting the person behind the work. Talking about the process. Finding something that feels personal instead of mass produced.

I’ve watched artists grow from their first small setup into full booths. I’ve seen connections turn into collaborations. I’ve seen people come in “just to look” and leave with something they’re excited about.

That’s what I care about building.

Save the Date

Summer MakersFest

Located at Maple Hall, in downtown La Conner

Saturday, July 25th, 2026

Market Hours: 10AM-4PM

Once we have our vendor line-up confirmed, we'll start sharing more about them in our newsletters and on social media.