43rd Annual Easter Decoy & Art Festival

The Easter Decoy & Art Festival is held to celebrate the history and craft of decoy carving and where local and national decoy carvers and artists of all kinds; fine art, photography, sculpture, jewelry, stained glass, pottery, etc. exhibit and sell their work at this Chincoteague Island tradition. Exhibitors carve and create on site and are eager to talk about the love of their work. Come eager to learn from the finest and purchase some of their works to treasure yourself or to give as a gift. 

Awards are given in various categories; carving, art and photography. Children receive a Children’s Choice Award ribbon upon admission to present to their favorite artist while festival attendees vote for People's Choice Awards for best carver and best artist. Best Photograph of Chincoteague or Assateague is chosen by jury. The highest award given each year is the Curtis Merritt Award of Excellence. This is awarded to the exhibitor who displays excellence as an individual, as well as an artist and/or carver and is voted on solely by the exhibitors. Awards are announced at 3pm on Saturday.

Wooden Easter eggs are meticulously hand carved, painted and/or embellished by exhibitors and are sold through a silent auction to the highest bidder. This auction has been a highlight of the show each year, with some eggs fetching a handsome sum. Auction closes at 4pm on Saturday.

$5.00 admission each day; children under 12 are free

Date: March 29 & 30, 2024