About This Festival
The Madison Chautauqua Festival of Art is a free, outdoor, juried fine arts and crafts festival held annually in historic downtown Madison, Indiana. In 2025, it takes place September 27-28 from 10 AM to 5 PM each day along Broadway to Vine Streets on the riverfront by the Ohio River. It features over 200 artisans showcasing handmade fine arts and crafts, along with a variety of food vendors, local craft beer, live entertainment, and family-friendly activities including a kids craft area and an interactive Chalk Walk street art event[1][3][5].
Event Setting and Vibe:
Set in Madison’s National Landmark Historic District, the festival has a lively, welcoming atmosphere that blends arts appreciation with community fun. The historic riverfront location provides a scenic backdrop, and the presence of local craft beer and continuous live music creates a festive and relaxed vibe. The event is family oriented, with children’s activities alongside more serious arts and crafts exhibitions, attracting both locals and visitors to the region[1][3][4].
Activities and Features:
- Arts & Crafts Exhibits: Approximately 175-215 juried artists and craftspeople display and sell handmade works in various media, from fine art paintings to pottery and handmade jewelry.
- Chalk Walk: On Saturday, September 27, artists of all ages may participate in a Chalk Walk on Elm Street near 1st Street. Registered participants receive a reserved 4’x6’ sidewalk square and pastel sets to create colorful sidewalk art judged at 5 PM. Pre-registration is $20 (by Sept 26), or $25 on the day of the event. All skill levels are welcome[2].
- Live Entertainment: Continuous live music and performances take place throughout the festival, enhancing the festive environment.
- Food and Drink: There is a riverfront food festival offering a variety of food vendors and local craft beer and wine available in an entertainment garden area.
- Kids Craft Area: A dedicated area for children’s craft activities aims to engage younger attendees.
Rough Schedule:
| Time | Activity | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Saturday, Sept 27 | Festival opens (arts & crafts exhibits, food vendors, entertainment) | Downtown Madison - Broadway to Vine Streets along Ohio River |
| 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM | Chalk Walk (Elm Street near 1st Street) | Elm Street near 1st Street |
| 5:00 PM | Chalk Walk Judging and awards | Elm Street |
| Saturday & Sunday | Continuous live entertainment | Various festival stages/locations |
| Both days | Kids craft activities | Kids area |
| Both days | Local craft beer and wine garden | Entertainment garden |
History and Founding:
The Madison Chautauqua Festival of Art has a rich history lasting over 50 years. It began as a community-driven event and is now a well-established nonprofit under the umbrella of Visit Madison, Inc. Volunteers, city employees, and community leaders collaborate to organize the festival each year, ensuring it maintains its status as a premier arts event in Southern Indiana. The festival reflects the local community's strong commitment to arts, culture, and historic preservation[1][5].
Additional Information:
- The event is handicapped accessible and free to the public.
- Pets are not allowed to ensure comfort and safety for all visitors and artists.
- The website and Facebook page provide up-to-date details and a contact phone number: (812) 571-2752.
In essence, the Madison Chautauqua Festival of Art offers a rich blend of high-quality arts, vibrant community participation, and family-friendly entertainment set in a picturesque historic riverfront environment.