The Verde Valley Pottery Festival returns November 13-15, 2026, at D.A. Ranch Vineyards for a weekend celebrating handmade pottery, live demonstrations, family activities, local food, live music and estate-grown Arizona wine. Visitors can select a mug, bowl or sculpture directly from the artist who created it, then imagine how that one-of-a-kind piece might find a place in everyday life.
What began in 2022 as a grassroots gathering in Camp Verde has grown into a regional destination for makers, collectors and buyers. The festival encourages guests to meet the artists and explore the variety of handmade ceramics, from functional pieces designed for daily use to sculptural works of art.
The festivities begin with First Pick Friday on November 13 from 4 to 6 p.m. A $25 early-access preview gives guests first choice of ceramic pieces, along with D.A. Ranch wine, food trucks, craft beer and live music. Festival Weekend follows November 14, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and November 15, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Admission is free both days, with shopping, demonstrations and activities for the whole family.
At the Artist Market, potters will showcase their handmade work, ranging from functional pottery to sculptural art. Visitors can watch live demonstrations of wheel throwing, surface design and alternative firing techniques. Hands-on clay experiences for children and educational demonstrations will give guests of all ages an opportunity to explore the art of ceramics.
This year’s festival also marks an exciting new chapter as the organization becomes an official 501(c)(3) nonprofit arts organization.
“Becoming a nonprofit is a huge step forward for us, but our heart remains exactly the same,” Founder and Executive Director Ben Roti said. “What started as a simple desire to bring ceramic artists together has grown into a vital community gathering.”
The designation provides a stronger foundation for supporting ceramic artists, expanding hands-on arts education and creating more opportunities for people across the Valley to experience studio ceramics. General admission is free on-site parking is available. For more, visit vvpf.org.
