Art on the Square is one of Iowa’s longest-running art festivals, returning to Historic Downtown Oskaloosa for its 57th annual event on Saturday, June 13, 2026 (9:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.) in City Square Park. This beloved, juried outdoor festival features original, handcrafted work by artists from across the region—celebrating creativity in a welcoming, community-centered setting.

Artist booths surround the square, creating an easy-to-browse experience for collectors and casual shoppers alike. The festival also highlights Emerging Artists (first-time show participants) and includes a Window Art Walk and other creative experiences that bring the district to life.

Art on the Square emphasizes the integrity of a true art show: work presented for sale must be created by the artist (no resale items), and a wide range of media are represented, including ceramics, painting, photography, jewelry, glass, fiber, wood, sculpture, printmaking, and more. Select artists are recognized through awards, making the day both a celebration and an opportunity to support working artists.

LOCATION: Art on the Square will take place in Oskaloosa’s City Square Park. To allow for setup and pedestrian traffic flow, all tents will be set up partially in the grass. To receive their spot assignment, all artists must check in with volunteers before the event. As in past years, the rain location is Penn Central Mall.

ELIGIBILITY: All work submitted, displayed, and presented for sale must be the original, handcrafted work of the applying artist. Resale items are not permitted. All artists must have a minimum of 12 pieces (8 pieces for Emerging Artists) available for sale. Technique must be divulged in the “Description of Material and Technique” section of the application. Any computer manipulation used in the creation of the work must also be disclosed in the “Description of Material and Technique” section. Failure to do so will result in disqualification. Only selected artists will be accepted into the juried booths. No artists will be accepted who do not meet these criteria, or do not submit all required materials: jury items, complete application, and proper payment of fees.

JURY FEE & PROCESS: Submit the non-refundable $20 jury fee with your complete application and jury items. All artists will be juried regardless of prior jury acceptance. Three jury items must be submitted to Oskaloosa Main Street at 222 1st Avenue East, Oskaloosa, IA 52577. Alternatively, photos of artwork may be submitted to chamber@mahaskachamber.org. If original artwork is of excessive size/weight, please include a detailed description of medium or materials. To increase publicity of participating artists prior to the event, this year’s application also encourages a short bio and photo to be used for print promotions and online marketing, including social media. The Art on the Square committee reserves the right to remove any items from the show that do not meet juried expectations.

REGISTRATION FEE: The artists will be contacted by phone or letter after jury approval. Artists must then submit their registration fee. The fee is based on the application submission dates. Registration fees are non-refundable. Fees (including tax) are: $75 Early Bird • Apply by April 10, 2026 $85 Final • Apply by May 1, 2026. Registration fee covers one vendor space approximately 12×12 situated in the City Square Park. Applicant must indicate a need for electricity on the application (one outlet available per applicant). Artists are responsible for bringing their own tables, chairs, displays, and canopy/tent, including protection for wind and sun.