Autumn is a beautiful time to visit Galena. Cooler temperatures and changing leaves transform the countryside into a colorful backdrop, perfect for a relaxing getaway. Add more than 120 talented artists and makers, delicious food, local drinks, and live music, and you have one of the area’s most anticipated fall traditions: Galena Country Fair 2026.

The Galena Country Fair returns to historic Grant Park October 10th and 11th, 2026. This popular annual event brings together hand-selected art, craft, and fine art vendors from around the region for two days of shopping and seasonal fun overlooking downtown Galena.

Best of all, Hawk Valley Retreat offers a peaceful place to unwind after a busy day at the fair. Spend the day browsing one-of-a-kind creations, enjoying the sights and flavors of Galena, then escape the crowds for a quiet evening surrounded by the beautiful northwest Illinois countryside.

Discover Handmade Treasures at Galena Country Fair 2026

The heart of the Galena Country Fair is its impressive collection of more than 120 hand-selected vendors. Rather than mass-produced merchandise, the emphasis here is on high-quality, original, handmade work.

Browse booths filled with jewelry, photography, home decor, seasonal decorations, clothing, toys, gifts, fine art, and other handcrafted creations. Whether you’re searching for something special for your home, getting an early start on holiday shopping, or simply enjoying the creativity on display, there is plenty to discover.

The fair is held in Grant Park at 625 Park Avenue, just across the Galena River from historic downtown. The park’s beautiful setting and views of Galena make it an especially fitting location for an autumn arts and crafts fair.

Food, Wine, and Live Music in Grant Park

Come hungry! Galena Country Fair offers plenty of classic festival food, including pork chop sandwiches, brats, walking tacos, baked potatoes, hand-cut French fries, fudge, and other sweet treats.

Adults can also relax in the Gazebo Wine Garden with Galena Cellars wine or sangria. Craft and domestic beer, cocktails, specialty coffee, hot cider, and other beverages are available throughout the fair.

Live music adds to the atmosphere throughout both days. The 2026 entertainment schedule includes Two County Line performing Saturday and Sunday mornings, followed by classic rock and country trio Sunshine in the afternoon.

The fair is also a community fundraiser. Organized by volunteers, proceeds from the event support grants and donations benefiting nonprofit organizations throughout Jo Daviess County. Learn more at the fair website.

Plan Your Visit to Galena Country Fair

Galena Country Fair 2026 hours are 10am to 5pm Saturday, October 10th, and 10am to 4pm Sunday, October 11th. A $3 donation is suggested at the gate, and the fair takes place rain or shine.

Country Fair weekend is a busy one in Galena, but organizers make getting to the event easier with free remote parking and shuttle service. Free parking is available at designated lots around Galena, with shuttles running every 30 minutes between the lots and Green Street Plaza downtown. From there, visitors can walk across the pedestrian bridge to Grant Park.

Once you’ve finished exploring the fair, you’re already perfectly positioned for a stroll along historic Main Street. Browse Galena’s shops and galleries, stop for dinner or drinks, and enjoy the lively atmosphere of an October weekend in town.

Make It a Fall Getaway at Hawk Valley Retreat

A day at Galena Country Fair pairs beautifully with the quieter side of autumn in Galena. After browsing busy vendor booths and exploring downtown, leave the crowds behind and return to the peaceful surroundings of Hawk Valley Retreat.

Our adult-only bed and breakfast and private cottages offer a relaxing country escape just minutes from downtown Galena. Enjoy the changing colors, walk the property trails, watch wildlife, or simply settle in and savor the quiet after a full day of fall fun.

October is one of the most popular times to visit Galena, and Galena Country Fair weekend gives you another excellent reason to plan an autumn escape. Book your stay at Hawk Valley Retreat and enjoy one of Galena’s favorite fall traditions while experiencing the best of both worlds: a festive weekend in town and a peaceful retreat in the country.