Mount Dora Craft Fair Returns Oct. 24-25 with 350+ Exhibitors
Every autumn, a massive celebration of art and community comes to the historic district of Mount Dora, Florida. For 2026, the 41st Annual Mount Dora Craft Fair brings this beloved two-day tradition back to the local streets, welcoming more than 200,000 visitors to explore works from over 350 of the nation's premier artisans. Recognized as a top-tier creative showcase by Sunshine Artist Magazine, this weekend street festival offers families a vibrant mix of fine art, unique handcrafted goods, live music, and diverse dining options.
Dates & Location
- Dates: October 24 & 25, 2026
- Hours: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. daily
- Location: Historic downtown street grid of Mount Dora, FL.
Admission
- Event Entry: Free and open to the general public.
- Food & Drink: Items from street vendors, as well as beverages from the dedicated beer, wine, and cocktail stations, are pay-as-you-go.
What to Expect
Families can expect a high-energy, bustling street festival atmosphere. The historic downtown grid is closed to vehicle traffic and densely packed with exhibition booths showcasing a wide variety of juried fine art and handcrafted goods. Alongside the shopping, you will find a diverse lineup of festival food vendors, outdoor beverage stations, live acoustic music, and special guest appearances. Because of the event's massive popularity, expect crowded streets and a moderate-to-slow walking pace.
How to Get There
Navigating downtown traffic and finding street parking during the festival weekend is notoriously difficult. The best way to access the event is by utilizing the park-and-ride shuttle service.
Where to Stay
If you are planning to make a weekend out of it, booking your lodging well in advance is essential for this event.
- For a Historic Experience: The Lakeside Inn is located right in the heart of the downtown action. As Florida’s oldest continuously operating hotel, it offers an incredibly charming, Victorian-era feel with a large lakefront swimming pool, moss-draped oaks, and a relaxing porch that is perfect for families wanting to stay within walking distance of the fair.
- For Reliable Comfort: The Hampton Inn Mount Dora is a solid, budget-conscious option just a few miles from the historic district. It offers family-friendly standard amenities, including an outdoor pool and complimentary daily breakfast to fuel up the kids before heading to the shuttle lots.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is the event accessible for those with mobility needs?
Yes. Because the festival takes place on paved city streets, it is fully accessible. Accessible parking spaces can be found right behind Mount Dora City Hall (located at 510 N. Baker Street), though availability is limited. Traffic peaks heavily around midday, so trying to park near noon can be incredibly challenging. - Are strollers or wheelchairs available to rent on-site?
No. The event organizers do not offer on-site rentals, so you will need to bring your own strollers, wagons, or wheelchairs. - Will I need cash, and are there ATMs available?
While most crafters accept major credit cards, spotty cellular networks and heavy crowd volumes can sometimes cause card readers to lag. It is highly recommended to carry some cash. If you run out, temporary ATMs are set up at multiple spots throughout the festival grounds.
Final Tips
- Leave Pets at Home: Well-behaved pets are allowed at the event, however guests are strongly encouraged to leave their dogs at home due to crowded conditions.
- Sip and Stroll: Adults can enjoy the festival at a relaxed pace with a drink in hand. The event is set up to allow attendees to purchase beer, wine, or cocktails from designated stations and stroll the streets while viewing the art.
