🎨 MakerFest 2026 Vendor Market at Old Putnam County Fairgrounds — July 18–19

As the Upper Cumberland’s maker community continues to grow, MakerFest is becoming a signature event for Sequatchie Valley residents and visitors seeking authentic, locally crafted goods and direct connections with the artisans behind them.

🗓️ When & Where

MakerFest 2026 will take place on July 18–19 at the Old Putnam County Fairgrounds. This two-day vendor market brings together talented makers, artists, and small businesses from across the Upper Cumberland region, offering shoppers a chance to browse and purchase one-of-a-kind items directly from the people who made them. 🏪

🎁 What to Expect

Organizers promise an eclectic mix of handmade goods, food, art, gifts, apparel, soaps, crafts, tools, home goods, and unique finds you didn’t know you needed. Whether you’re hunting for artisan jewelry, locally made bath products, or quirky oddities, the market will feature vendors showcasing the creativity and skill of Upper Cumberland makers. ✨

💰 Support Local & Shop Smart

Event organizers describe MakerFest as “dangerous for your wallet in the best possible way”—a tongue-in-cheek reminder that you’ll likely leave with far more than you planned. By shopping at MakerFest, you’ll support local makers, small businesses, and the broader maker community while taking home something far more meaningful than a big-box store receipt. 🛍️

🤝 Vendor Opportunities

If you’re a maker or small business owner interested in participating, applications are now open. Interested vendors can fill out the application form at https://forms.gle/eWrdToDqxg9nEY6H6. Proceeds help support 501(c)(3) organizations including UC Makerspace, Imagine Foundry, and other community creative spaces. 📣

📍 Learn More

For additional details about MakerFest 2026, visit https://ucmakerspace.org/makerfest. Mark your calendar and plan to support the talented neighbors creating amazing things right here in the Upper Cumberland. 🌟

What to Know Before You Go

• Mark your calendar for July 18–19 and plan to arrive early, as MakerFest will feature a large vendor market with handmade goods, art, food, and crafts from across the Upper Cumberland region.
• Bring cash and be prepared to spend more than you planned—organizers humorously warn that MakerFest is ‘dangerous for your wallet in the best possible way’ due to the variety of unique, one-of-a-kind items available.
• The event takes place at the Old Putnam County Fairgrounds, so wear comfortable walking shoes and dress appropriately for July weather in Tennessee.
• If you need lodging for the weekend, consider nearby options like Best Western Dayton or Americas Best Value Inn Dayton for convenient access to the fairgrounds. — Best Western Dayton

Source: UC Makerspace – MakerFest 2026 vendor market event on July 18-19 at Old Putnam County Fairgrounds featuring local makers and businesses

Related Businesses

UC Makerspace

UC Makerspace is explicitly mentioned in the article as a 501(c)(3) organization that benefits from MakerFest proceeds and is a key organizer of the event.

Through the Looking Glass

Downtown Dayton shop featuring locally made art and crafts, directly aligned with MakerFest‘s focus on handmade goods and local artisans.

Sister Moon Goods

Artisan business offering handmade soaps, artisan jewelry, and home décor—product categories explicitly mentioned as featured at MakerFest.

Winsome Stroll Market

Indoor artisan marketplace hosting approximately 40 vendors with rotating gallery, similar vendor-focused model to MakerFest‘s local maker community.

Feathery Farm Goat Milk Soaps & More, LLC

Artisan producer of handmade goat milk soaps and natural skincare products, matching MakerFest‘s emphasis on locally made bath products and crafts.

Mother Willow Designs

Handmade crafts business serving Sequatchie County, representing the type of local maker community that MakerFest celebrates and promotes.