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Winter Festival Application

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About the Application Process

Be part of the PhinneyWood Winter Festival, hosted by the PNA! We’re inviting talented artists and makers to join us for this festive celebration of creativity, community, and the holiday season. This is a wonderful chance to showcase your work and connect with art lovers and holiday shoppers alike.

What’s New for 2025:

We’re celebrating the 45th anniversary of the Winter Festival, a beloved event that draws thousands of attendees each year. To mark this milestone, we’re excited to introduce a Preview Night on Friday from 5–8 PM.

Preview Night offers a more exclusive shopping experience with limited ticket availability. VIP general admission tickets are $25, with a discounted rate of $20 for PNA members. This special evening gives vendors a unique chance to engage with attendees in a more intimate setting and allows for earlier setup on Friday.

Event Times

  • Booth Load-In: 12pm Friday, December 5th – all vendors
  • Preview Night: Friday, December 5th | 5–8pm
  • Festival Hours: Saturday & Sunday, December 6th & 7th | 10am–5pm

Artist Marketplace Timeline

  • Applications Open: June 1st, 2025
  • Applications Close: August 17th, 2025
  • Jurying Process: August 18th – September 14th, 2025
  • Notifications Sent to Artists: September 15th, 2025

Juried Art Show Timeline

  • Applications Open: June 1st, 2025
  • Applications Close: September 15th, 2025
  • Notifications Sent to Artists: October 1st, 2025
Artist Marketplace Applications - Open June 1 2025
Juried Art Show Applications - Open June 1, 2025
Performer Application
Food Truck Application

Artist Marketplace Application Overview 2025

The Winter Festival maintains its tradition as a juried show. Our jury will assess your website, social media, and Etsy site(s) to determine acceptance. However, if you don’t possess a website or it lacks current or seasonal merchandise, you may provide a link to a google dropbox with up to 5 photos of your work for the jury’s consideration. Kindly refrain from uploading photos if your products are already showcased on your website.

Application Fee

A non-refundable fee of $25

Booth Fees

There will be a limited number of each size booth, your requests will be strongly considered but cannot be guaranteed.

  • Small $295 (6′ wide x 5′ deep)
  • Large $400 (8′ wide x 5′ deep)
  • Outside Space $295 (10′ x 10′, vendor must provide own tent/canopy)

Extra Fees

  • Table Rental: 6′ x 30″ – $15 (one size only)
  • Temporary Business License: In compliance with the City of Seattle regulations, participants must hold a valid City of Seattle Business License or obtain a temporary license. If you possess a City of Seattle Business License (a 7-digit number), please have it ready for inclusion in the application. For those requiring a temporary license, an additional fee of $10 per day will be necessary, in addition to the booth fee, upon acceptance.

Cancellations

If you are accepted and you cancel before Nov. 1, you will receive a 50 percent booth refund. After Nov. 1, you will receive a 50 percent refund only if your booth space can be filled.

Scholarship for Emerging Artists

We are excited to offer scholarships covering the cost of 8 small booths at the PhinneyWood Winter Festival.

Who is eligible for this scholarship:

  • Emerging Artists: We encourage applications from emerging artists who are looking to gain exposure and experience at these kinds of events.
  • BIPOC Artists: We are committed to promoting diversity and inclusivity in our community. Priority will be given to artists who identify as Black, Indigenous, or People of Color.

Application:

Applicants are asked to outline how this scholarship would support their growth and exposure as an artist. Providing a detailed response explaining their artistic journey, any challenges they’ve faced, and how participating in the PhinneyWood Winter Festival will benefit their development and visibility as an artist.

Juried Art Show Application Overview 2025

Now in its second year, the Juried Art Show takes place in the Piano Nobile Exhibition Space on the second floor of the Brick Building at the Phinney Center. This popular addition brought vibrant energy to the festival last year, drawing steady crowds throughout the weekend—especially with art workshops happening just beyond the exhibit in the adjacent studio space.

Many of last year’s participating artists volunteered to help staff the space, creating a welcoming and engaged environment that added something truly special to the overall festival experience. This exhibition will feature approximately 30 artworks with track exhibition lighting. Sales will be facilitated through QR codes on exhibition labels, directing buyers to a Square site for purchasing. 

Artwork Requirements:

  • Eligibility and Preferences: The exhibition is open to local Seattle artists, with a preference for local, emerging, and BIPOC artists. All artwork must be at least 16” x 16” and must be for sale. For smaller work, we encourage you to consider applying for a vendor marketplace booth.
  • Artwork Pick-up and Drop-off Dates: Artists must drop off their artwork by November 8, 2025, and pick up their unsold artwork on Tuesday December 10th 2025.

Commission

There is a 50% commission to the artist and 50% to the PNA. The PNA will handle all payment processing, and arranging artwork pickup with the buyers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of crafts do you accept in the marketplace?

This market features handmade/locally designed products. We are dedicated to promoting the artistry and skill of local artisans, and therefore, only items created/designed by hand are eligible for application. While we emphasize local design, we understand that artisans may face logistical or resource challenges in production. Therefore, we allow items to be made elsewhere, as long as the design and concept originate locally. The core artistic vision should remain connected to our community.

How is the jury conducted?

Our jury panel is composed of a diverse group that includes past event attendees and members of the PhinneyWood community. When evaluating applications, we carefully consider the craft’s uniqueness, price range, quality, and its appropriateness to our event. While we acknowledge the value of PNA membership and past participation, it is important to note that previous involvement does not guarantee acceptance. Each year, a new jury is formed, ensuring impartiality and eliminating any preconceived notions about a vendor’s past performance. We want to emphasize that the Winter Festival & Crafts Fair attracts an increasing number of talented vendors annually. Every craft possesses its own beauty and uniqueness. However, due to the limited availability of spaces, the decision-making process becomes challenging, and unfortunately, we are unable to accept all vendors who apply.

Are there limits on categories?

Yes. To provide balance and variety, there will be limits in specific categories. Jewelry especially is a very competitive category. It is worth the effort to make sure there are good photos of your work on your sites. They are the only thing that jurors will see. Do not assume jurors will know your work as a past vendor. The most successful vendors offer related items at a range of prices, including some below $25.

Alternate list

Vendors have been known to drop out as late as the week of the event. In the event that you are placed on the alternate list, please let us know if you would like to be notified in the case of a last-minute booth opening.

Business License and taxes for vendors?

A Seattle (not Washington) business license is required to participate in the Winter Festival. If you do not have a Seattle business license you may obtain a temporary one through the PNA for $10 per day. If needed, this will be added to your booth fee if accepted. If you have a Seattle business license, you will be asked to enter the number in the application process. Vendors are responsible for handling all business taxes.

Equity and Inclusion Statement

At the PNA, we are committed to fostering an inclusive and equitable space for all vendors. We believe that diversity is our strength, and we celebrate the richness of our community’s cultures, backgrounds, and perspectives. We strive to create an environment where everyone feels welcomed, respected, and valued.

We welcome applications from vendors of all races, ethnicities, genders, sexual orientations, religions, abilities, and backgrounds. Our selection process prioritizes diversity and inclusivity, and we encourage vendors from underrepresented communities to apply. We seek to create a marketplace that reflects the vibrant tapestry of our local community.

Booth Scholarship Application FAQ

What is the Emerging Artists Scholarship?

The Emerging Artists Scholarship covers the cost of 8 small booths at the Winter Festival & Crafts Fair, providing a valuable opportunity for artists to gain exposure and experience.

Who is eligible to apply for the scholarship?

  • Emerging Artists: Artists who are new to the art scene and are looking to gain exposure and experience.

  • BIPOC Artists: Artists who identify as Black, Indigenous, or People of Color, as we are committed to promoting diversity and inclusivity in our community.

How do I apply for the scholarship?

To apply, you will need to answer a few questions about your artistic journey, the challenges you have faced, and how this scholarship would support your growth and exposure as an artist.

What should be included in my application response?

Your application should include:

  • A detailed explanation of your artistic journey.

  • The challenges you have faced as an emerging or BIPOC artist.

  • How participating in the Winter Festival & Crafts Fair will benefit your development and visibility as an artist.

What is the deadline for scholarship applications?

This is the same as the application deadline. August 18th.

When will I find out if I have been awarded the scholarship?

We will notify you at the same time acceptances are sent out (September 16).

Can I apply if I have received a scholarship from a different event before?

Yes, previous scholarship recipients from other events are welcome to apply, provided they meet the eligibility criteria.

Who can I contact if I have more questions?

If you have any further questions, please contact Terri Price gro.r1745848639etnec1745848639yenni1745848639hp@pi1745848639rret1745848639, and we will be happy to assist you.

What were the attendance numbers in 2024?

Attendance: 

  • 2024 Total Visitors: 5,750 
  • Saturday Attendance: 3,241 
  • Sunday Attendance: 2,539 

Vendor Feedback 2024

What Vendors Say 

  • “I absolutely love being part of the PhinneyWood Winter Festival. The festival has a wonderful community feeling—it’s always fun to watch neighbors bump into each other, and it’s a very friendly crowd.”
  • “The load-in process was so smooth! I didn’t feel rushed at all, and the volunteers were so helpful.” 
  • “Foot traffic was amazing, and I exceeded my sales expectations! I had loyal customers returning year after year.” 
  • “The sale has a coziness that I feel is missing from a lot of modern craft sales. It just has a good feel.” 
  • “The PhinneyWood Winter Festival is one of my absolute favorite events to participate in as a vendor. It’s well-organized, well-attended, and the shoppers are so supportive.” 
  • “The great organization and signage. Probably the best organized show I’ve ever done. I also really appreciated the sandwiches at the bake sale.” 
  • “The community vibes here are hard to beat. Shoppers were so wonderful & curious. I definitely will apply next year. Loved the experience!” 

More Vendor Feedback! 2024

This data was collected from our post event vendor survey:

Event Highlights 

  • Top-Selling Products: 
    • Strong sales reported in the $50–$100 range, particularly for jewelry, art prints, handcrafted gifts, and unique home goods. 
    • Second-best price range: $25–$50, with items such as mugs, candles, small original art, and kitchen towels performing well. 
    • Under $25: Stocking stuffers, soaps, ornaments, and greeting cards were big hits with budget-conscious shoppers. 
  • Marketing Success: Effective promotion ensures a mix of loyal repeat customers and new attendees each year. Vendors praised the festival’s social media campaigns and community outreach. 
  • Festive Atmosphere: A warm, cozy environment enhanced by live music, delicious food, and community spirit made the festival memorable for both vendors and attendees. 

 

What Vendors Loved Most 

  • The Shoppers: Vendors consistently praised the friendly and enthusiastic shoppers who are eager to support local artisans. “The customers are some of the sweetest people—so loyal and curious about the work.” 
  • Community Vibes: The festival is known for its cozy, community-focused feel, which sets it apart from larger craft fairs. “The atmosphere here is unmatched—it feels like a true celebration of the neighborhood.” 
  • Fellow Vendors: Many vendors highlighted the joy of meeting and networking with other talented artists. “I’ve made so many friends and business connections here over the years.” 
  • Clear Communication: The detailed and timely communication from event organizers was frequently mentioned. “The emails and instructions were so clear and helpful—it made everything run smoothly.” 
  • Well-Organized Logistics: Vendors appreciated the staggered load-in times, Friday setup option, and availability of volunteers to assist. 

Contact Us

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For any further inquiries or questions, please contact us at gro.r1745848639etnec1745848639yenni1745848639hp@pi1745848639rret1745848639. We look forward to reviewing your applications and welcoming you to the Winter Festival at the PNA!