Spring has officially arrived in Skagit Valley, and what better way to celebrate the season than by exploring vibrant tulip fields and discovering unique, locally made treasures? The Skagit Valley Tulip Festival is one of the most popular events in the Pacific Northwest, and during this time, the PNW Artist Marketplace offers visitors the perfect opportunity to shop for handmade goods, enjoy delicious local food, and explore the creativity of local artists. Located at The Vinery next door to Christianson’s Nursery, the marketplace is a must-see stop for anyone visiting the area this spring. Open now through April 27, 2025, the PNW Artist Marketplace features 90 local artists offering unique and handmade items—not mass-produced goods.
For locals Marisa and Dominic Papetti, owners of the PNW Artist Marketplace, the opening of the market feels like coming home. “We love seeing familiar faces and meeting new people from all around the world,” says Marisa. “It’s a highlight of the year, and we look forward to the market every spring.” Over the past five years, the marketplace has become a beloved tradition during the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival, offering visitors a space to shop for everything from home decor and spring gardening supplies to special gifts for graduations and Mother’s Day.
PNW Artist Marketplace: A Spring Tradition Celebrating Art, Nature and Community
The PNW Artist Marketplace has quickly become an essential part of the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival experience. The marketplace brings together local artists from all over the Pacific Northwest, showcasing a diverse selection of handmade goods. From unique jewelry and ceramics to one-of-a-kind paintings and locally crafted food products, the marketplace offers something for everyone. All of the items available for purchase at the PNW Artist Marketplace are created by local artists, ensuring that every piece is a distinctive, handmade work of art—not mass-produced or imported.
This year’s featured artist, Kelly Liedtke of Cumulative Effects Artistry, is just one of the talented creators you’ll find at the market. Alongside Kelly, the marketplace also features popular local businesses like Mary Gold Tales and Hot Ones own Funky’s Hot Sauce. The PNW Artist Marketplace is not just a place to shop—it’s an experience that celebrates the creativity, craftsmanship, and spirit of the Pacific Northwest.
The market is also family- and dog-friendly, making it an ideal destination for a spring outing with your loved ones. Marisa and Dominic are especially fond of the lively energy that fills the air during the festival. “It’s incredible to see how the colors of the tulips pop against the changing skies of spring,” says Marisa. “There’s a special energy as people come out of winter and embrace the sunshine.”
With no admission or parking fees the entire Christianson’s Nursery Campus is open to the public, three stops in one- the PNW Artist Marketplace offers a free, accessible event for all, where visitors can explore an array of locally crafted items, then stroll over to the nursery and a stop into the Historic Schoolhouse for a show curated by the Camano Arts Guild. The tulips look to be in peak bloom from April 12-26 with some color showing as of April 3. The Snow Geese and the Trumpter swans are still here and the valley is as magical as ever.
Make the Most of Your Skagit Valley Tulip Festival Visit: Art, Tulips and Local Flavor
If you’re planning to visit the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival, be sure to make the PNW Artist Marketplace a part of your day. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., the marketplace is conveniently located as a stop before, during, or after a visit to the tulip fields. Whether it’s your first time attending the festival or you’re a seasoned visitor, Marisa and Dominic suggest taking the time to enjoy the full Skagit Valley experience.
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the Calico Cupboard in LaConner, followed by a leisurely stroll down the street for some charming window shopping. Afterward, head to the Roozengaarde tulip fields to take in the spectacular views of blooming tulips, then swing by Tulip Valley to pick up your own fresh-cut tulips. When it’s time for lunch, make your way to the PNW Artist Marketplace, where you can shop for beautiful local art and pick up picnic essentials from Skagit Valley Larder. On Thursdays, Fridays, and Sundays, enjoy wood-fired pizza from Gusto’s Pizza, available from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.
While you’re at the marketplace, be sure to take a break and relax in the outdoor seating area, where you can enjoy a meal or snack surrounded by the colorful tulip fields. Don’t miss Marie’s Bees signature honeycomb candy—a local treat that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth!
In addition to the marketplace, don’t miss Art in the Pickle Barn, a carefully curated collection of local artists displaying their work. This intimate venue is a perfect spot to discover more of the incredible talent found in the Skagit Valley and beyond.
End your day with a satisfying dinner at Skagit’s Own Fish Market, where you can enjoy a Cajun shrimp po’ boy and other fresh seafood dishes. Finally, stop by Skagit Acres to enjoy their newest tulip fields—an ideal way to reflect on a day filled with art, nature, and community.
Join The PNW Artist Marketplace for the Best Year Yet
“This year has been incredible so far,” says Marisa. “We can’t wait for you to join us and experience the beauty, creativity, and community that make the PNW Artist Marketplace so special.”
For more details about the PNW Artist Marketplace, visit our website at www.pnwartmarket.com or follow us on Instagram @pnwartmarket for the latest updates, photos, and behind-the-scenes sneak peeks.
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