2026 Chester County Studio Tour
Announces 16th Annual Event
May 16-17, 2026
Featuring 172 Artists in 59 Studios Across Chester County
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Grab a map, follow your curiosity, and step inside the art—Chester County Studio Tour returns May 16–17, 2026
Chester County, PA — The Chester County Studio Tour is back for its sweet 16, and it’s bigger, bolder, and more inspiring than ever. What started as a cozy gathering of 25 artists across 12 studios has grown into a countywide creative adventure: 172 artists opening the doors to 59 studios for one unforgettable weekend of art discovery.
Mark your calendar for May 16–17, 2026, and get ready to explore, connect, and maybe even fall in love with a piece (or two).
“Each spring, our tour lights up the community with an incredible range of talent,” said Jeff Schaller, Founder of the Chester County Studio Tour. “In a world full of fleeting digital images and Artificial Intelligence, this weekend is all about real, human connection. You’re not just looking at art—you’re stepping into the story behind it.”
And that’s the magic. This isn’t a quiet gallery stroll. It’s a choose-your-own-adventure through working studios—paint on the floor, tools on the bench, inspiration in the air. Meet artists where it all happens. Ask questions. See what sparks.
The tour brings together a vibrant mix of creators: first-timers sharing their work publicly, seasoned professionals, second-career artists, and passionate makers who simply can’t not create. Styles and mediums span the spectrum—painting, sculpture, jewelry, photography, clay, glass, paper, fiber—you name it. And yes, every artist will be there, ready to talk, laugh, and share their process.
Plan your route—or don’t. Half the fun is wandering.
The newly updated website, countystudiotour.com, makes it easy to build your perfect day. Click “Add to Itinerary” on your favorite artists, and let Google Maps (with a little help from Tolsdorf Oil Lube Express) map your route. Short on time? Try the “Find 5!” feature and hit the closest cluster of studios. Or just start anywhere and see where the road takes you.
Art collecting just got a lot more fun (and approachable).
The beloved County Collector Series returns in 2026, sponsored by Pook & Pook and Dovetail Auctions. Collect original, framed 6” x 6” works for just $90. Whether you're a first-time buyer or a seasoned collector, this is your chance to start—or grow—your collection with something truly special. (Warning: collecting one may lead to collecting five.)
Thousands of visitors have experienced the tour over the years, and many come back again and again—not just for the art, but for the stories, the connections, and the sense of discovery around every corner.
Event Details:
The 2026 Chester County Studio Tour is proudly sponsored by Citadel and is free and open to the public.
Saturday, May 16: 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Sunday, May 17: 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Visit www.countystudiotour.com for maps, artist listings, and the full catalogue. Accessible studios are clearly marked online and in print.
For more information:
info@countystudiotour.com | 610.942.9629
More Than a Tour—It’s a Creative Recharge
Connection: Meet the artists, hear their stories, and see what fuels their work.
Inspiration: You might leave with art—or with the urge to make some yourself.
Community: Spend the weekend among people who love creativity as much as you do.
Reflection: Art has a way of making you pause, think, and feel—sometimes all at once.
Legacy: Supporting local artists keeps the creative spirit alive and thriving right here in Chester County.
So grab a friend, bring your curiosity, and hit the road. You never know what you’ll find—or who you’ll meet.