Discover Red Wing’s Pottery Heritage and Get Ready for CrockFest 2026

Posted by visitorscenter@redwing.org on June 11, 2026

Few places in America can claim a pottery legacy quite like Red Wing. For more than a century, the city’s clay industry produced iconic stoneware crocks, jugs, churns, art pottery, and dinnerware that found their way into homes across the country. Today, visitors can step into that rich history at the Pottery Museum of Red Wing and experience one of the nation’s premier pottery collecting events during CrockFest, July 9–11, 2026.

Start Your Journey at the Pottery Museum of Red Wing

Pottery Place . Assortment of pottery

Located in Red Wing’s historic West End District, the Pottery Museum of Red Wing preserves and celebrates the city’s remarkable clay industry. Inside, visitors will discover more than 6,000 examples of pottery spanning nearly a century of production, making it one of the most extensive collections of Red Wing pottery in the world. Better yet, admission is free, making it a must-see stop during any Red Wing getaway.

As you explore the galleries, you’ll encounter everything from massive salt-glazed crocks and utilitarian stoneware to beautifully decorated art pottery and vintage dinnerware. Historic photographs, memorabilia, and exhibits reveal the story of the workers, artists, and entrepreneurs who helped establish Red Wing as a nationally recognized pottery center. The museum is located within the former pottery factory district, just steps from the historic buildings where many of these iconic pieces were once produced.

Pottery Place Retail Interior Pottery Place Retail

After your visit, take time to wander through Pottery Place, a historic pottery factory transformed into a unique destination filled with antiques, specialty shops, dining options, and local treasures.

CrockFest Returns July 9–11, 2026

Pottery Crock Fest Crowd Shopping Pottery Crock Fest Vendors

If you love antiques, collectibles, history, or treasure hunting, now is the time to mark your calendar. Hosted by the Red Wing Collectors Society, CrockFest returns July 9–11, drawing pottery enthusiasts and collectors from across the nation.

Throughout the weekend, visitors can browse dealer sales, educational displays, exhibits, auctions, and collector events celebrating Red Wing’s pottery heritage. One of the highlights is the popular CrockFest Show & Sale, where more than 40 antique dealers offer an impressive selection of stoneware crocks, jugs, churns, art pottery, dinnerware, and other collectible treasures.

The excitement extends beyond the event venues as collectors and visitors explore downtown shops, local restaurants, riverfront attractions, and the historic West End District throughout the weekend.

Make It a Red Wing Getaway 🚗

While CrockFest may be the main attraction, there is plenty more to discover during your stay. Enjoy scenic views of the Mississippi River, browse locally owned boutiques, visit museums and galleries, explore the city’s rich history, and savor meals at Red Wing’s independently owned restaurants.

Whether you’re a serious collector, a history enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique summer getaway, a visit to the Pottery Museum of Red Wing paired with a weekend at CrockFest 2026 offers a memorable experience that connects visitors to one of Minnesota’s most fascinating industries.

Mark your calendar for July 9–11, 2026, and discover why Red Wing’s pottery heritage continues to captivate collectors and visitors from across the country and be sure to book your stay today.