Indie Craft Parade: Shop 100+ Artists at Judson Mill (Plus Where to Stay)

If you love handmade goods, thoughtful design, and supporting independent makers, make plans for the 2026 Indie Craft Parade in Greenville, South Carolina. This annual celebration of creativity brings more than 100 artists and makers together under one roof at historic Judson Mill for a full weekend of shopping, food, music, crafts, and family-friendly fun.

The festival takes place September 11–13, 2026, making it an ideal early-fall getaway. After a day of browsing one-of-a-kind goods, return to a comfortable room at Sleep Inn® at Greenville Convention Center, a relaxing home base with free hot breakfast, free WiFi, and convenient access to Judson Mill and downtown Greenville.

Event details at a glance

• What: Indie Craft Parade 2026

• Where: Judson Mill, 701 Easley Bridge Rd, Greenville, SC 29611

• When: September 11–13, 2026

• Friday First Dibs Party: 5–9 p.m.

• Saturday: 10 a.m.–5 p.m.

• Sunday: 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

• Artists and makers: More than 100

• Admission: General admission ranges from $5–$10; other ticket options are available

• Children: Ages 16 and under attend free on Saturday and Sunday

• Parking: Free parking shuttle available Saturday and Sunday

• Official information: Visit the Indie Craft Parade attendee page for updates and planning details.

What to expect at Indie Craft Parade

Indie Craft Parade is more than a traditional craft market. It is a curated art festival designed to spotlight talented makers and the care behind handmade work. At Judson Mill, shoppers can explore an indoor marketplace featuring original goods from artists across the South and beyond.

The selection changes from maker to maker, but visitors can expect plenty of variety. You may find handmade jewelry, artwork, ceramics, textiles, home décor, paper goods, clothing, accessories, and gifts that are difficult to find anywhere else. Whether you are shopping for a memorable Greenville souvenir, a birthday present, or something special for your home, the festival offers plenty of opportunities to discover a new favorite artist.

Because the event is held indoors at Judson Mill, you can browse comfortably while enjoying the character of a historic textile mill. The setting adds to the experience, blending Greenville’s industrial heritage with the energy of today’s creative community.

In addition to shopping, the festival features a free photobooth, craft stations and activities, local food and drinks, and entertainment. Judson Mill is also home to additional attractions, including a restaurant, an indoor playground, and a rock-climbing gym, giving families and groups even more ways to enjoy the area.

Choose your festival day

Friday: First Dibs Party

The weekend begins with the First Dibs Party on Friday, September 11, from 5–9 p.m. This ticketed evening gives guests early access to the 100-plus makers before the general-admission hours begin.

First Dibs is a great choice for shoppers who want first access to one-of-a-kind pieces or prefer a lively night out with friends. The evening includes live music, a free photobooth, giveaways, and local food and drinks.

Children 16 and under are not free on Friday. If you are attending with children, Saturday or Sunday may be the better option.

Saturday: A full day of shopping and activities

Saturday runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is a popular choice for families, day-trippers, and serious shoppers. Children 16 and under receive free general admission, and the longer event hours make it easy to take your time exploring the artists’ booths.

Consider arriving early so you can browse at a comfortable pace, make a list of makers you want to revisit, and leave room for lunch or a snack. If you find something you love, remember that handmade items may be available in limited quantities.

Sunday: A relaxed final-day visit

Sunday’s hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. A Sunday visit can be a relaxed way to finish the weekend, especially if you prefer a slower morning before exploring the market.

As with Saturday, children 16 and under attend free with general admission. Check the official ticket page for current pricing and ticket details before you go.

Parking and the complimentary festival shuttle

Parking logistics are part of planning a smooth festival visit. According to the official event information, free off-site parking and a complimentary festival shuttle will be available Saturday and Sunday from Bon Secours St. Francis Hospital and Hollis Academy. Shuttles run continuously to and from Judson Mill during the event window.

The festival shuttle is separate from the transportation offered by Sleep Inn® at Greenville Convention Center. For hotel courtesy transportation, 24 hours’ notice is required. Contact the hotel at 864-240-2006 to ask about current availability and arrangements.

On-site parking at Judson Mill is also available Saturday and Sunday for a fee, with payment by card. Parking attendants can help direct guests, including visitors who need accessible parking. The festival states that the event is accessible, with an elevator available between the two levels.

For current parking instructions, see the official directions to free shuttle parking and directions to paid parking at the mill.

Where to stay in Greenville, SC

If you are searching for places to stay in Greenville SC for the festival, location, comfort, and included amenities can make a weekend trip much easier. Sleep Inn® at Greenville Convention Center offers a convenient home base for guests visiting Judson Mill, downtown Greenville, and other local attractions.

As a Designed to Dream™ property, the hotel is focused on creating a restful environment for a good night’s sleep. After spending hours walking through the festival and carrying your new finds, you can return to a comfortable guest room with amenities including:

• Premium bedding

• Free WiFi

• A flat-screen TV

• Coffee maker

• Microwave and refrigerator

• Spacious desk area

• A relaxing, stylish atmosphere

Guests can also start the next morning with a free hot breakfast, helping you save time and money before heading back to the festival or exploring Greenville.

Travelers comparing hotels in Greenville SC may appreciate the combination of essential conveniences and a location that makes it easy to enjoy more of the city. Guests looking for cheap hotels in Greenville SC can also consider the value of included breakfast and WiFi when comparing total trip costs. Rates and availability vary, so it is best to check directly before booking.

Sleep Inn® at Greenville Convention Center is a 100% smoke-free, no-pets property. Pets are not allowed, so please plan accordingly before your stay.

To check availability or learn more about hotel amenities, visit the official Sleep Inn® at Greenville Convention Center page or call 864-240-2006.

Make a Greenville weekend of it

Indie Craft Parade can easily be the centerpiece of a full Greenville getaway. Spend Saturday or Sunday shopping at Judson Mill, then enjoy a meal at a nearby restaurant or head downtown for more dining, entertainment, and local attractions. The festival’s location also makes it convenient to combine your visit with other Greenville plans.

For a more relaxed schedule, consider staying two nights. You can attend the First Dibs Party on Friday evening, enjoy a full festival day Saturday, or use Sunday for a final browse before heading home. A multi-day stay gives you more time to shop without rushing and creates space to rest between activities.

When packing, bring comfortable shoes, a reusable shopping bag, and enough room for handmade finds. If you plan to purchase larger pieces, ask the maker about safe transport or shipping options. Most importantly, allow yourself time to pause and enjoy the experience: meeting artists and learning the stories behind their work is part of what makes Indie Craft Parade special.

Plan your visit

Mark your calendar for September 11–13, 2026, and use the official Indie Craft Parade website to confirm tickets, schedules, parking information, and event updates.

For a comfortable place to rest after a day of creative discoveries, make Sleep Inn® at Greenville Convention Center your Greenville home base. With free hot breakfast, free WiFi, comfortable guest rooms, and easy access to Judson Mill and downtown, it is a welcoming choice for an art-filled fall weekend.

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