Tarpon Springs Early Elf Art Market 35th Annual 2026

For over three decades, the Tarpon Springs holiday showcase has been a cornerstone of the Florida festival circuit. Now, with a fresh new brand—the 35th Annual Early Elf Art Market—we are inviting the region's finest artists and crafters to join us this November.
Sponsored by the Tarpon Springs Chamber of Commerce, this event is the premier alternative to "Big Box" shopping. We are looking for original works from both emerging talent and established masters.

• Historic Venue: Set in the heart of Historic Tarpon Springs (1 N Pinellas Ave), a spirited arts destination on the National Register of Historic Places.
• The Audience: A loyal, gift-focused crowd looking for high-quality, handcrafted treasures.
• No Admission/Parking Fees for Shoppers = High foot traffic and happy buyers.
• The Categories: Folk art, ceramics, fine painting, wearable art, luxury body products, pet accessories, and more.
• Supportive Promotion: Heavily focused on local media outlets to highlight your talent. Media opportunities available.

The 35th Annual Early Elf Art Market is committed to maintaining a high-quality, diverse marketplace that honors our 30+ year history while providing a profitable environment for our creative partners.

Artist Amenities & Media Opportunities
We value the talent that makes this show possible and are dedicated to supporting your professional growth through the following perks:

• Professional Promotion: Exhibitors are encouraged to submit high-resolution product photos for inclusion in our official press releases and digital event look-books.
• On-Site Media Access: We actively invite local press, bloggers, and influencers to cover the event.
• Featured Artist Spotlights: Leading up to the event, selected artists will be featured across our social media platforms.
• Booth Relief: Volunteer "Booth Buddies" are available for brief breaks.
• Overnight Security: Professional roaming security is provided Saturday night.
• Recognition: We are proud to feature an "Early Elf Excellence" award. This juried award recognizes one artist for "Best in Show" and another for "Most Creative Holiday Display," with winners receiving a discounted booth fee for the following year.

Accepted Medium Categories
To ensure a balanced and competitive show, we accept applications in the following categories:

• Fine Art: Oil, Acrylic, Watercolor, Photography, and Sculpture.
• Fine Craft: Ceramics/Pottery, Glass, Woodworking, and Metalwork.
• Jewelry: Hand-fabricated, precious metals, and artisan-beaded designs.
• Wearable Art: Hand-sewn apparel, textiles, and leather goods.
• Apothecary & Home: Luxurious body products, candles, and gourmet pre-packaged foods.
• Folk Art & Decor: Whimsical garden art, upcycled creations, and holiday-themed treasures.

Site Logistics

• Setup: Load-in begins early Saturday morning (staggered times apply).
• Parking: Dedicated exhibitor parking is provided within walking distance of the show site.
• Display Requirements: All displays must be professional, with weights of at least 40 lbs per leg. Floor-length table covers are recommended for all display tables to hide storage.

Wait List Policy
Because we limit the number of vendors in each category to prevent "over-saturation," popular categories (such as Jewelry or Soaps) often fill quickly.

• Automatic Consideration: If your category is full but your work passes the jury process, you will be placed on our priority waitlist.
• Notification: If a spot opens due to a cancellation, waitlisted artists will be contacted in the order they were juried.

Product Guidelines & Standards

• Handcrafted Integrity: To maintain the "Early Elf" brand, all products must be original, handcrafted, or artist-enhanced. 
• Curated Variety: Please ensure your application clearly lists all items you intend to sell. Items not listed in your original application  may be asked to be removed during the event.
• Prohibited Items: No drug paraphernalia, weapons, or items deemed offensive by the event jury.

The Setup Process

• Load-In Schedule:
  • Saturday Morning: 6:00 AM – 9:00 AM.
  • Earlier set up may be requested in advance
  • All vehicles must be off the street by 9:15 AM—no exceptions.
• Setup Requirements: Your 10x10 space must be "show-ready" by 9:45 AM. This includes:
  • Tent: Securely weighted (40 lbs/leg).
  • Hidden Storage: Use floor-length table drapes to hide all bins, boxes, and backstock.
  • Cleanliness: The area around your booth must be kept tidy and free of debris throughout the day.

Pricing & Fees Summary

Item	Fee	Notes
Application Fee	$35	Non-refundable, due with application.
Artist/Crafter Booth	$285	Standard 10x10 space.
Fair Trade	$385	Standard 10x10 space. (Limit 4)
Services	$1500	Standard 10x10 space. (Limit 4)

There is a $50.00 cancellation fee for every canceled booking. *All cancellations must be made in writing via email.

30 days or more: If you cancel 30 days or more from the event set up date you will be offered 2 options:

• Booth fee refund excluding the 8% processing fees PLUS a $50 administrative fee. Application fees are non-refundable.
• Show credit may be offered for a future SIK Promotions, Inc. event and must be redeemed within one calendar year from the date of your cancellation.

 
8 - 29 Days: If you cancel 8-29 days from the event set up date, no refunds will be offered. Show credit may be available for a future SIK Promotions, Inc. event and must be redeemed within one calendar year from the date of your original application.

7 Days or less: If you cancel 7 days or less from the event set up date, no refunds or credits will be available.

Redeeming show credit: You must apply to a future SIK Promotions, Inc. show available within one calendar year from the date of your original cancellation. Enter your show credit details in the “Notes Here” section and submit your application. Once a credit is applied to the event it is considered redeemed in full and is non-transferable. You will be notified via email if there is a balance due.

If you book and cancel twice within a calendar year, your fees will be non-refundable, and no credit will be offered for any future events.

Vendor Insurance: Vendors are encouraged to purchase event cancellation insurance to protect their investment in case of unforeseen circumstances.
​
Event Cancellation Policy

Please note we will not cancel a show for inclement weather unless informed by state, city or local officials that it will be in the best interest of safety for all.

If an event is canceled by state, city or local officials for any reason, exhibitors will be notified via email and offered show credit towards a future SIK Promotions, Inc. event.

All events are rain or shine. No credits or refunds will be issued if the show is affected by forces of nature beyond our control during the event taking place.