Fairs/Festivals
Last Call Art & Music Fest 2026
Niles, Illinois
Jury Fee: $0
Contact Information
Requirement Overview
- Eligible Applicant Types: Artist
- Emerging Artists: Emerging artists may apply.
- Submission Limit: 20
Media Requirements
- Images | Min: 3, Max: 3
- Total | Max: 3
Opportunity Summary
Join us for Last Call Art & Music Fest on Sunday, October 11, 2026, from 12–5 PM at the Niles Civic Center Plaza -1000 Civic Center Drive, Niles, IL (corner of Oakton Street & Waukegan Avenue).
Last Call Art & Music Fest is a celebration of art, music, food, and community in the heart of our Civic Center Plaza. This event features talented local artists and makers, live music throughout the day, delicious food trucks, and fun activities for all ages. Guests can stroll the plaza, shop unique handmade work, enjoy seasonal festivities, and connect with the community in a welcoming outdoor atmosphere. We’re seeking artists who want to be part of a fun, engaging event that highlights creativity and brings people together.
This event is hosted by the Niles Public Arts & Culture Council, whose mission is to celebrate and strengthen arts and culture in our community by supporting the artists, performers, and organizations that bring creativity, connection, and cultural experiences to the Village of Niles.
Last Call Art & Music Fest is a celebration of art, music, food, and community in the heart of our Civic Center Plaza. This event features talented local artists and makers, live music throughout the day, delicious food trucks, and fun activities for all ages. Guests can stroll the plaza, shop unique handmade work, enjoy seasonal festivities, and connect with the community in a welcoming outdoor atmosphere. We’re seeking artists who want to be part of a fun, engaging event that highlights creativity and brings people together.
This event is hosted by the Niles Public Arts & Culture Council, whose mission is to celebrate and strengthen arts and culture in our community by supporting the artists, performers, and organizations that bring creativity, connection, and cultural experiences to the Village of Niles.
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General Information
Last Call Art & Music Fest has been a community favorite since 2022, bringing together artists and visitors for a vibrant celebration of creativity each autumn. This juried arts and crafts festival features over 50 artisans and offers a welcoming, free-admission outdoor experience held rain or shine. The event attracts hundreds of engaged attendees who come ready to browse, connect with artists, and make purchases.
Application
When completing the application, please indicate your primary medium. You may list additional mediums in the following sections.
Collaborative submissions require only one application; however, each participating artist must complete a Hold Harmless & Indemnification Release Form.
Notification of Acceptance will be sent via email. Once completed application is received, please allow 14 business days for confirmation of approval or denial.
Fees
Application
When completing the application, please indicate your primary medium. You may list additional mediums in the following sections.
Collaborative submissions require only one application; however, each participating artist must complete a Hold Harmless & Indemnification Release Form.
Notification of Acceptance will be sent via email. Once completed application is received, please allow 14 business days for confirmation of approval or denial.
Fees
- $50 non-refundable participation fee if approved. Includes one 12' x 12' exhibition space only. All equipment must be provided by the artist or rented separately.
- $25 non-refundable student participation fee (available to artists under 25 with a valid student ID or proof of enrollment)
- $100 canopy tent rental fee for one 10' x 10' tent (per tent)
- $10 sidewall rental for canopy tent (per wall)
- $15 rental fee for one 8' folding table (per table)
- $5 folding chair rental fee (per chair)
Application Requirements
Artist Rules & Guidelines
Vendor agrees that artwork is their original work, that all images and products are designed, created and made (or made under direct supervision) of the artist and represent the category and samples submitted with the application and accepted by the jury.
Vendor agrees to set-up their assigned space with appropriate items and material that is related to the theme and goal of the event as stated: The goal of the Last Call Before Fall Art and Music Fest is to showcase authentic, original, high quality artistic creativity by bringing the community together for an all ages, fun and exciting shopping experience at our art and music fest.
Artists are required to have a tent to participate. Applicants may either provide their own tent or reserve a rental tent by paying the applicable rental fee during the application process.
Artists are required to bring their own shelving and displays.
Artist agrees to not interfere with neighboring vendors and infringe on their area of visibility. Displays and wares must stay within the allotted exhibit space.
No loud music, radio, television, machinery or equipment is permitted.
Artist agrees to clean up all materials, debris and discard as directed by Festival Staff that evening.
Festival Staff reserve the right to ask Artist to remove inappropriate items or displays that do not meet event goals.
All Artists and participants are expected to be courteous and respectful to festival staff and volunteers. Rude and uncooperative behavior will not be tolerated.
Sales & Taxes
Participating artists retain 100% of all sales proceeds.
Artists are solely responsible for collecting, reporting, and remitting any applicable sales taxes and business-related fees required by law.
Insurance & Liability
Artists are strongly encouraged to carry general liability insurance.
Last Call Art & Music Fest 2026 does not provide insurance coverage for artist booths, artwork, or equipment.
All Artists are required to sign a Hold Harmless & Indemnification Release form.
Jury Details
Average number of applications submitted each year
100
Average number of artists selected from the jury to participate in the event
50
Average number of exempt from jury artists who are invited to participate in the event
5
Booth Information
Booth Information
- Booth numbers will be assigned on the day of the show. Booth assignments will not be given in advance of the event.
- Each booth space is reserved for one exhibitor. Booth sharing is permitted only for artists who collaboratively create the work being exhibited.
- Participation fee of $50 includes one 12' x 12' exhibition space only. Tent, equipment and display equipment is not included in the participation fee.
- All booth placement requests are subject to availability and will be assigned at the discretion of festival organizers.
- The festival grounds are generally level; however, minor surface variations may exist. Artists are encouraged to bring any necessary leveling equipment to ensure a safe and stable booth setup.
- Electricity and running water will not be available on-site.
- Assigned set-up times will be provided prior to the festival. For the safety and enjoyment of attendees, tear-down may begin only after the festival officially concludes.
- Participating artists are responsible for providing or renting all display equipment needed for an outdoor setup. Tents/canopies are required and must be fire-safe and properly weighted at all times. Artists are fully responsible for securely anchoring and maintaining the safety of their booth throughout the event.
- Artist cooperation is appreciated—we will always do our best to accommodate your needs.
Refund Policy
Refund Policy
Last Call Art & Music Fest is an outdoor event, and weather conditions may vary significantly throughout the day. The festival will take place rain or shine. No refunds will be issued due to weather conditions. Artists are responsible for protecting their artwork, equipment, and personal property from rain, wind, and other weather-related conditions.
All fees are non-refundable.
Additional Fees
Participation Fee: $50
10ft x 10ft Canopy Rental (no walls): $100
8 ft Table Rental: $15
Sidewall for tent : $10
Folding Chair Rental: $5
Terms to Apply
Jury Fee: $0