Hi Jenny and other crafters,

First I want to mention open air markets.  You mentioned Europe and North America.  I experienced one such market in Mexico when I visited there.  If my memory serves me right, there is a market in Turkey that is so large it can be seen from outer space.

In our town of Lima Ohio, we have a simple open air market in the town square.  People actually sell from the back of their vans, bring small tables to set on the sidewalk.  There is no cost for participants, no insurance liability issues as they are on city property.  Anything is acceptable at an open market.....produce, crafts, baked goodies, soaps, decorations.  It is fun to go every Sat. a.m to the town square and see what is there.

In Lima, Ohio we have a more formal art show called "Once Upon a Sunday" held in October at the Ohio State University Branch.  Their is a fee and the artists are professionals.  There is music and homemade icecream, etc.  On a cool autumn day is delightful to stroll around and visit the artists set up on the university grounds.   Toledo, Ohio has a similar show at the Crosley Gardens. Even the radio station is there to interview the artists and play wonderful strolling music.

Each artist here might consider contacting your local city government for the informal farmers market idea, or your closest University.  The type of fair you set up will determine the type of artist and thus the type of buyer. Your local economy and spending habits on crafts will determine the route you take.