California Art & Wine Festivals & Fine Art Shows | MONOLISA
California Art Shows, Festivals & Seasonal Event Guide
This page is designed to help you quickly scan what kinds of California art shows, festivals, and holiday markets are happening throughout the year. Instead of clicking through a hundred pages, you can browse by season or explore the full long list in one place.
Shop Handmade at Local Art Shows & Festivals
One of the best ways to find meaningful gifts from artists is to shop in person at local art shows, craft fairs, and festivals. These events give you a chance to meet makers directly, hear the stories behind their work, and discover one-of-a-kind pieces you may not find anywhere else.
Browse upcoming events by season or explore the full show directory to find handmade shopping experiences across California.
Common Show Types (What Each One Feels Like)
Not all events are the same — even when they look similar online. Here’s a quick guide to what you can expect at the most common show formats.
⭐ Lisa’s Top Picks
Looking for the best shows to attend? After 200+ juried shows across California, Lisa shares her favorite events based on quality, atmosphere, and real show experience.
🍷 Art & Wine Festivals
Outdoor (sometimes downtown) events with art booths plus food, music, and wine/beer gardens. Great for browsing and discovering new artists in a lively, social setting.
🏛️ Juried Fine Art Shows
Typically more curated and art-forward. Many are juried, with higher expectations for originality, craftsmanship, and presentation.
🎄 Holiday Artisan Markets
Gift-focused shopping with a festive vibe. Shoppers are often looking for special, one-of-a-kind gifts (and they’re ready to buy).
🛍️ Boutique / Benefit Events
Smaller, indoor, often community-run events (schools, wineries, museums). These can be very relationship-driven with repeat local shoppers.
🌿 Community Festivals
More “something for everyone.” Great foot traffic, but the buying energy can vary depending on the audience and time of year.
🖼️ Pop-Ups & Gallery Events
Smaller-scale events that feel more personal. Often ideal for artists with a strong story, premium materials, and collectible work.
Helpful Resources
If you’re an artist applying to shows (or you’re curious how juried events work), these posts walk through the process and share real-world examples.
How to Get Into Art Shows
A practical guide to applications, jurying, booth photos, and what makes a strong submission. Read the guide.
Past Show List (2025)
A roundup of California art & wine festivals, fine art shows, and holiday boutique events from 2025. View 2025 list.
Where to See MONOLISA
Planning to attend a show? See where Lisa Ramos will be exhibiting next and experience MONOLISA in person.
These are also helpful if you’re a shopper — they show how many different event types exist, and why the “right” show depends on the audience, location, and time of year.
Vendor Opportunities & Pop-Ups
Looking for places to apply? Explore art shows, festivals, pop-ups, and vendor opportunities (plus tips on what to expect).
