Prism Market Returns to Glen Ellyn for a Summer Celebration Filled with Local Art, Craft Beer, and Plenty of Cats

A picture from the first ever Prism Market at Maplewood in late June 2026 - photo by Streetz

When we first started talking about bringing Prism Market back to Maplewood Public House, there was one thing nearly every artist agreed on: cats simply don't get enough attention at art markets.

As we looked at the calendar and realized our August event landed on National Cat Day, the theme practically chose itself.

On Saturday, August 8, from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM, Streetz Artz Alliance returns to Maplewood Public House, 486 Pennsylvania Ave. in downtown Glen Ellyn, for the second Prism Market. After the success of our inaugural event in June, Maplewood and I agreed that moving the market to a Saturday afternoon would give even more families and shoppers the chance to spend the day with us.

The brewery's outdoor parking lot will once again be transformed into a curated artisan market featuring more than 18 talented local artists and makers. You'll find original artwork, handcrafted goods, jewelry, home décor, books, woodworking, fused glass, escape room experiences, sewn goods, apparel, gifts, and countless one-of-a-kind creations that you simply won't find in big box stores.

Enjoy a variety of craft beer options, mixed drinks, non-alcoholic options and more. Photo provided by Maplewood Public House.

While the cat theme adds plenty of personality to the day, the market is much more than just cats. The goal has always been to create an event where visitors can grab an amazing craft beer, enjoy lunch with friends, and spend the afternoon discovering artists they may have never met before.

Maplewood Public House has quickly become one of Glen Ellyn's newest gathering spots since opening in May 2026 as the first suburban location for Chicago's Maplewood Brewery & Distillery. The brewery features a beautiful outdoor patio, small-batch beers brewed on site, a full food menu, house spirits, canned cocktails, coffee service, and a rotating selection of seasonal beverages, making it the perfect setting for an afternoon of sipping and shopping.

Of course, National Cat Day will definitely be well represented throughout the market.

Left to Right: Art from KindlyKathleen, custom pin from Ghost Owl Studio, Sewn bag from Sparkle N'Lights and cat folklore book from Alex Kujawa.

Ghost Owl Studio will be bringing several cat-themed shirts, pins, and blankets alongside many of its popular animal-inspired designs. Alex Kujawa, whose suggestion helped inspire this year's theme, will have original artwork as well as her beautifully illustrated book exploring supernatural cat folklore from around the world. Melanie Klegerman Fersko, Becky Blue Designs, Jen Watson Art, KindlyKathleen, La Rosa Escobedo, and Sparkle N' Lights will also feature cat-themed artwork, accessories, paintings, stickers, and handcrafted goods celebrating everyone's favorite feline companions.

Beyond the artwork, several participating artists are also using the event to support causes close to their hearts.

Alex Kujawa will donate a portion of her sales to Cat Guardians, a volunteer-run, no-kill cat rescue organization. Jen Watson Art supports League of Enchantment Chicago, whose volunteers dress as superheroes and storybook characters to brighten the lives of children facing serious illnesses, disabilities, and other challenges. Sparkle N' Lights donates a portion of its sales to the Mark Your Path Foundation, helping create opportunities and support for individuals with disabilities. These artists are wonderful examples of how local makers continue giving back to the communities that support them.

Left to Right: Vintage dish from Craftholes, display picture from Jeff's Twisted Metal, apparel from Masterlink Chainmaille, art and decor from Carol Musial Glassworks and display picture from Sparkle N' Lights.

Prism Market is also about variety. Whether you're looking for a unique gift, decorating your home, shopping for yourself, or simply enjoying an afternoon exploring creative work, there's something for just about everyone.

This month's featured lineup includes 3Damian Art, Art of Alex Kujawa, Becky Blue Designs, Carol Musial Glassworks, CluedIn Escape Rooms, Ghost Owl Studio, Jeff's Twisted Metal, Jen Watson Art, La Rosa Escobedo, MasterLink Chainmaille, Melanie Klegerman Fersko – Author and Artist, Simple Beauty Rocks LLC, Snowingstars, Sparkle N' Lights, The Craftholes, Third Lens Adventures, and Uniquely Q, with additional artists and makers expected to join before the event.

One of my favorite parts about organizing these events is watching people discover artists they had never heard of before. Someone may come out for a beer, but they leave with a handcrafted piece of art, a conversation with the artist who created it, and often a new favorite local business to follow. Those connections are exactly why Streetz Artz Alliance exists.

Left to Right: Windcatchers from Snowingstars, Original Art and Print from Becky Blue Designs, Hand Sewn bags and apparel from Jen Watson Art and Original Art pieces from La Rosa Escobedo

Every purchase made during the market directly supports an independent artist or small business. Instead of buying something mass-produced, you're taking home something with a story behind it while helping local creative entrepreneurs continue doing what they love.

Prism Market: Summer Edition & Cat Day takes place Saturday, August 8, from 12:00 PM until 5:00 PM at Maplewood Public House, 486 Pennsylvania Ave. in Glen Ellyn. Admission is free, the event is family friendly, and there is plenty of nearby parking.

Whether you're a cat lover, craft beer enthusiast, collector of handmade goods, or simply looking for a fun way to spend a summer Saturday, we hope you'll join us. Come sip and shop with us while supporting local artists, local businesses, and the creative community that makes events like this possible.