Lakeshore Art Festival 2026 (Muskegon, MI) – Call For Artists
[Sponsored Listing] The City of Muskegon, Downtown Development Authority announces a call for artists for the Lakeshore Art Festival, a two-day event that is a favorite of community and artists alike, featuring over 250 exhibitors, in beautiful Downtown Muskegon, Michigan.
The event incorporates public art projects, live street and stage performances, children’s activities, and local food vendors, making it a true community celebration of creativity. It’s not just about looking at art — it’s about experiencing it. Be a part of this juried festival and submit your application today.
Click here for the application / registration
Enter by: 1 February 2026
Exhibiting at the Lakeshore Art Festival comes with thoughtful amenities designed to make your weekend enjoyable and stress-free. Artists can look forward to cash prizes and awards totaling $3,000, along with a continental breakfast served on both Saturday and Sunday. The festival also provides booth sitters, overnight security, and drive-up loading and unloading for convenient setup and teardown. To top it off, all artists are invited to a special Artist Reception, offering a great opportunity to relax, connect, and celebrate creativity.
The Lakeshore Art Festival stands out as one of the most engaging and well-loved summer events along Michigan’s lakeshore because it combines art, community, and experience in a way that appeals to everyone — artists, locals, and visitors alike. The festival is held in the heart of downtown Muskegon, just steps from the lakeshore, restaurants, and shops — giving it a lively, walkable atmosphere. The lake breeze, art-lined streets, and live entertainment create a festival vibe that’s hard to beat. It’s not just about looking at art — it’s about experiencing it.
Fine Art Cash Prizes and Awards
- 1st Place/Best in Show – $1,000
- 2nd Place – $800
- 3rd Place – $600
- 4th Place – $400
- Committee’s Choice – $200
Craft Art Cash Prizes and Awards
- 1st Place – $150
- 2nd Place – $100
- 3rd Place – $50
Lakeshore Art Festival Testimonials
“It was the best sales at a festival I’ve had yet!”
“Setup and tear down were a breeze, no rush or fussing. The customer base were so kind and welcoming! So were the event staff! Very well organized event in a clean and beautiful area of town! Saw lots of marketing for this show on our way to set up.”
“Great volunteers, fun crowd, easy load in and out. Thank you for a great show! “
About City of Muskegon, Downtown Development Authority
The City of Muskegon, Downtown Development Authority (DDA) exists to act as a catalyst in the development of a community’s downtown district. Various funding tools exist for DDA’s including millage and tax increment financing for public improvements within the boundaries of the district. “Our mission is to allocate our resources in support of development, promotions, and events toward creating a
thriving downtown and its waterfront where all people can live, work, play, and stay.”
For more information, contact info@lakeshoreartfestival.org
