Applications are now open for artists, performers, food vendors, community organizations, and activity leaders interested in participating in the 47th annual DBQFest, taking place Saturday, August 8 and Sunday, August 9, 2026, in Washington Park in downtown Dubuque.
Produced by the Dubuque County Fine Arts Society, DBQFest is Iowa’s longest-running art fair and festival, celebrating art, music, and culture since 1979. The free two-day event welcomes thousands of visitors each year to experience a juried art fair, live music and performances, food vendors, and interactive arts activities for all ages.
Festival hours are 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM with live music until 7:00 PM. on Saturday, August 8, and 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM on Sunday, August 9.
Visual Artists
Applications are now open for the juried art fair portion of DBQFest. Artists working in all media—including jewelry, glass, painting, textiles, photography, sculpture, ceramics, mixed media, and more—are encouraged to apply.
Accepted artists receive a 10’ x 10’ outdoor booth space in Washington Park and are expected to be present both days of the festival. Selected artists pay a $150 booth fee. Emerging artists who are new to exhibiting at professional art fairs may apply for an Emerging Artist Scholarship, which waives booth fees and provides an art fair tent free of charge.
Applications for visual artists are due Tuesday, March 31, 2026, at dbqfest.com/apply. There is no fee to apply.
Performers & Park Activities
DBQFest is also seeking musical performers, stage acts, and individuals or groups offering interactive arts activities for festival audiences.
All musical genres are welcome; however, DBQFest prioritizes original music with a mellow, audience-friendly sound that complements the art fair environment and allows visitors to comfortably explore artist booths. Park activities may include hands-on art experiences, demonstrations, participatory performances, or other creative engagements designed for festival visitors of all ages.
Selected applicants will be compensated based on festival budget and proposed activity fees. Applications for performers are due April 30, 2026, and park activities are due June 25, 2026, at dbqfest.com/apply.
Food Vendors
Applications are also open for mobile food and beverage vendors interested in serving festival attendees. Food trucks will be located along 6th Street between Bluff and Locust Streets, adjacent to Washington Park, and food vendors with pop-up canopies will be located within the park.
Vendors may apply for one- or two-day participation. Vendor fees are $150 for one day or $100 for both days plus a $50 refundable clean-up deposit.
Food vendor applications are due June 15, 2026, at dbqfest.com/apply.
Community Booths
DBQFest also offers community booth spaces for nonprofit organizations and community-focused groups interested in connecting with festival audiences. Community booths may provide outreach, educational information, or interactive activities but may not be used for product sales.
Participation operates on a pay-what-you-can contribution model from $0–$50, determined by the participating organization. Groups are responsible for providing their own tents, tables, and materials.
Community booth applications are accepted on a rolling basis while space is available at dbqfest.com/apply.
Volunteer and sponsorship opportunities are available. To learn more, visit dbqfest.com or contact Festival Director Ali Levasseur at director@dubuquefest.org.
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