The 45th Annual Philadelphia Museum of Art Craft Show - What to Know to Attend the In-Person and Online Event

The 45th annual Philadelphia Museum of Art Craft Show is almost here! Artists, show organizers, and committee members are greatly looking forward to returning to the Pennsylvania Convention Center in Philadelphia for the in-person event, which will also be accessible online. With just over two weeks to go, we’re filling this blog with all the info and FAQ’s you need to know. As we return to the Pennsylvania Convention Center, the health and safety of guests, artists, and staff are of critical importance.

The 2021 PMA Craft Show is both in-person and online?

Yes. The 2021 Show will be a combination of in-person and online participation with 170 artists appearing in-person at the Pennsylvania Convention Center and the balance online only through the Show’s website. The in-person show is a ticketed event. Click HERE to buy tickets. There is no charge for the online show, but gifts to the museum are always welcomed.  

What are this year’s show dates and times?

Friday, November 5th, 2021 – 11am – 9pm EST

Saturday, November 6th, 2021 – 10am – 6pm

EST Sunday, November 7th, 2021 – 10am – 5pm EST

When is the Preview Party Gala and will it be in-person?

The Preview Party will be in-person, on Thursday, November 4th, 2021 from 4pm – 9pm. Entry time is dependent on ticket purchased. Attend the cocktail gala and be among the first to meet the artists and purchase their unique works. A ticket to the Preview Party Gala is valid for entry every day the show is open. Click HERE for preview party ticket information and to purchase tickets.

How much are tickets to the in-person show and how do I buy them?

Tickets to the show can be purchased online or during the show at the Convention Center.

One day: $20

Two days: $25

Children under 12 years old: $5 

Click HERE to purchase tickets to the show.

Are there group discount tickets to the show?

Yes. Purchase 10 or more tickets to get a discounted rate of $16 per ticket. Click HERE for details.

Will there be food and beverages at the Preview Party as in past years?

Yes, food and beverages will be provided in a limited area. Following a ruling by the Health Department, the space in the back of Exhibit Hall F will be used for food, beverage, and seating for the Preview gala and for public days.

Will there be an awards ceremony?

Yes. The annual awards ceremony will be presented during the Preview Party Gala.

Is the show juried and does the show take a commission of sales?

This premier show and sale of contemporary craft and design includes 195 of the finest craft artists in the United States, selected by an esteemed jury panel. All work is for sale and the artists receive 100% of their sale proceeds.

How will the booths be laid out to allow for more space between artists and attendees?

The show committee has been hard at work mapping out the exhibit floor to have ample space around booths for circulating and providing optimal space for all.

How do I know which artists will be at the in-person show?

Artists will be in-person unless it says, “appearing online only” on their individual page on the website.

How can I learn more about this year’s artists?

Most of the artists have a short video introduction on their page on the PMA Craft Show website. We encourage everyone to spend time in advance of the show exploring the website and learning about our wonderful 2021 artists.

Will there be artist talks?

Yes. Click HERE and bookmark the page to access artist talks now and throughout the show.

What is the social media for the PMA Craft Show?

We’re glad you asked! We encourage everyone to follow @pmacraftshow across Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, and Twitter. In addition, please search for and use the hashtags #pmacraftshow and #artbyhand before, during, and after the show.

What are the Covid safety protocols and requirements regarding masks and vaccinations during the Show and Preview Party?

Anyone entering the Pennsylvania Convention Center, Exhibit Hall F, is required to provide proof of full Covid vaccination and, attendees ages 2 and up, to always wear a mask (except when actively eating or drinking in the designated areas). Your vaccination card (photo or photocopy accepted) is required upon entry to Exhibit Hall F. Click HERE for more details.

Do the protocols also apply to artists, show staff, and convention staff?

Yes. All participants in the Craft Show will provide proof of vaccination. This includes exhibitors, their assistants, committee volunteers, show staff, and hired sub-contractors. Philadelphia is mask mandated for indoor events.

What health and safety guidelines is the PMA Craft Show following?

The PMA Craft Show will follow updated health and safety guidelines in accordance with the city of Philadelphia, the Pennsylvania Department of Health, and the CDC.

Is a photo of my vaccination card on my phone sufficient to show proof of vaccination?

Though the actual card is preferred, yes a photo on a phone is allowed.

Are there any exceptions to the mask and vaccination mandate?

Children under the age of 12 are not currently able to get the vaccine, so may enter the Convention Center wearing a mask.

What additional safety measures are being provided?

The Convention Center has implemented the following: Improved cleaning and sanitizing procedures. There is a process in place to follow a particular cleaning protocol; high touch locations being continuously cleaned; sanitizing stations in public areas. UV protection on all escalators as the railing rolls through. HVAC system has been upgraded. As of October 1, all staff and contractors working in the Convention Center will need to show proof of vaccination.

Where can I find information about travel, location, parking, etc.?

Click HERE to visit the Convention Center website.

I have a question that isn’t listed here or on the website. How can I contact someone?

Please contact the Philadelphia Museum of Art Craft Show Office by emailing twcpma@philamuseum.org or calling 215-684-7930

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Produced by The Women’s Committee of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the Philadelphia Museum of Art Craft Show is the longest running show of its type in the United States and is the largest fundraiser for the Philadelphia Museum of Art. When you purchase a ticket and make an additional donation, you are directly supporting the work of the museum.