Western New York's premier juried craft show returns for 56th year

Biggest in nearly a decade, as 100 American Craftsmen comes to Lockport's Kenan Center

Kenan Center Press release

For 56 years, 100 American Craftsmen has brought together some of the finest makers in the country for a celebration of contemporary craft art in the heart of Western New York. This June, the show returns with more artisans, more energy, and more reason than ever to attend – making the short drive from Buffalo, Niagara Falls, Rochester or southern Ontario well worth the trip.

The 56th annual 100 American Craftsmen will be held at the Kenan Arena on the historic Kenan Center campus, 433 Locust St., Lockport, on Saturday, June 6, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Sunday, June 7, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is $5 in advance or $7 at the door. Presale tickets are available at www.KenanCenter.org.

This year's show is the largest the event has seen in nearly a decade, featuring over 100 juried artisans working in leather, glass, metal, clay, wood, basketry, fiber, paper and mixed media. The roster includes a rich mix of beloved 100 American Craftsmen veterans alongside impressive newcomers, a lineup that reflects both the event's storied legacy and the bright future of fine craft in Western New York.

Among the participating artists are Pat Reno Pottery, Michael Cancilla Fine Art, and Lynn Schwab Jewelry, and the show will feature over two-dozen artists affiliated with the Roycroft Campus or the Roycroft Alumni and Living Artists (RALA) program, a tradition that ties the show directly to one of Western New York's most celebrated artistic legacies.

"100 American Craftsmen returns to its former glory with 100 phenomenal artists who believe in fine craft," said Bill Patti, CEO of the Kenan Center. "This event celebrates high-quality art in this corner of the state, as the oldest and preeminent juried show."

Nickle City Makers, "Sultan River Pour Trinket Box" image courtesy of the Kenan Center.

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This year's edition carries added significance: it will be the final show held in the original Kenan Center Arena. Beginning with next year's show, 100 American Craftsmen will move to the new Kenan Civic Arena, currently under construction adjacent to the existing facility. The new venue promises easier access, more space, an elevated visitor experience, and new possibilities for expanded programming – including breakout sessions and hands-on learning opportunities. For longtime attendees and first-time visitors alike, 2026 is the year to be there.

Proceeds from admissions and exhibitor fees support the Kenan Center's 25-acre campus, the largest regional community arts, education, and recreation center in Eastern Niagara County, and the home of programming that serves the region year-round.

Also, on campus both days is the Kenan Herb Club's annual plant sale, a beloved tradition that pairs perfectly with a day spent exploring handcrafted art.

Saturday evening boasts a night of world-class performances, as the weekend's programming extends well beyond the show floor. At 7 p.m., the Kenan Center's Taylor Theatre plays host to Aria Nouveau, a crossover concert experience featuring Billboard-charting soprano Laura Auer and tenor John Riesen, known to millions from his appearance on “America's Got Talent.” Together, they perform a breathtaking blend of classical arias, Broadway favorites, and beloved cinematic works. The performance accompanies the contemporary art exhibition on the Kenan Center campus, creating a full evening of culture and artistry in one of Lockport's most beautiful settings. Tickets for Aria Nouveau are $30 and are available at www.KenanCenter.org.

The Kenan Center is fully accessible, family friendly, and offers ample free parking on campus.