QUILT SHOW

New England

April 8–11, 2026

VENUE

Connecticut Convention Center

100 Columbus Blvd.
Hartford, CT 06103
Get Directions

HOURS

Wed., Apr. 8–Fri., Apr. 10 | 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
Sat., Apr 11 | 9 a.m.–4 p.m.

Registration NOW OPEN

Online Registration Closed, Purchase Admission & Classes at the Show

Get ready, New England! AQS is bringing QuiltWeek - New England to Hartford, CT!

The American Quilter's Society is thrilled to announce the launch of AQS QuiltWeek – New England, taking place April 8-11, 2026, at the Connecticut Convention Center in Hartford, CT. Quilters can look forward to a vibrant event featuring a wide array of quilt exhibits, quilting workshops, and vendors. Instructor and class announcements are scheduled for Fall 2025, with registration opening in December 2025. In the meantime, please mark your calendars and save the dates!


START PLANNING NOW!

Save the Date:

  • Instructor Announcements: September 2025 
  • Workshops, Lectures, Special Events, and Multi-Day Tickets:
    AQS Member-Only Registration Opens: 12/9/2025 at 9 a.m. CST
    – General Registration Opens: 12/16/2025 at 9 a.m. CST
    Online Registration Closes: 4/6/2026 at 4 p.m. CDT
  • Quilt Contest: Opens 6/3/2025, submissions close on 11/6/2025. Learn more at go.americanquilter.com/contests,
  • Vendor Registration: Vendor Registration for all five 2026 AQS Shows will open on July 7, 2025. Interested new vendors can complete a Vendor Application at any time. More Information >

Quilt Show Admission

AQS Show Admission Prices – Four-Day Shows

SHOW ADMISSION

1-Day: $12.00 Member / $15.00 Non-Member
2-Day*: $21.00 Member / $27.00 Non-Member
Multi-Day*: $28.00 Member / $35.00 Non-Member

*A one time only $5 processing fee per person is charged with each initial registration

DISCOUNTS

• Children 12 and under, FREE ADMISSION with adult
• Ages 13–18, $5.00
• Military, $2.00 discount at the door with military ID
Click here for group rate

Quilt Show Floor

Downtown Hartford CTCC

SEW Much To Do in Hartford

Downtown Hartford is known for its rich history and cultural arts, plentiful selection of unique restaurants serving up a variety of cuisines, entertaining nightlife and other memorable attractions. Many of these exciting locations are easily accessible by foot or by way of the dash Shuttle (Download PDF), a free bus that loops Downtown Hartford making stops at 17 locations. It departs from the Connecticut Convention Center every 15 minutes and visits most hotels, restaurants and attractions in the immediate downtown area.

  • Hartford, Connecticut's capital city, is located at the crossroads of major roadways, I-84, I-91 and Route 2, and is less than two hours from both New York City and Boston
  • Bradley International Airport (BDL) is just 15 minutes from Downtown and public transportation between the airport and downtown is available seven days a week aboard the Bradley Flyer, with a one-way fare of only $1.75!
  • Amtrak and major bus lines travel through Hartford's historic Union Station Transportation Center, and less than five minutes from Downtown is Brainard Airport (HFD), whose easy access and amenities are a favorite for private pilot owners.

From sunning on the sandy beaches of the Long Island Sound, to theater and museums in the state's exciting cities, to cruising on the Connecticut River, to hiking the foothills of the green Berkshire Mountains, there is truly something here for everyone.

Things to do in Hartford PDF >

AQS BRANSON QUILT SHOW INSTRUCTORS


Barbara Blanton
Devida Bushrod
Devida Bushrod

Barbara Cline

Kathy Dunigan

Reeze Hanson
Michelle Renee Hiatt
Michelle Renee Hiatt

Ann Holte
Jaymi Horne
Jaymi Horne
Lorelai Kuecker
Lorelai Kuecker
Stephanie Ngai
Stephanie Ngai

Gina Perkes

Heidi Proffetty
Bob Purcell
Bob Purcell

Julia Quiltoff

Raija Salomaa

Annie Smith

Connect Through Creativity

Participate in hands-on workshops and enjoy engaging lectures and special events with the quilting industry’s top instructors.

Quilt Show Workshop

Quilt Show Vendor

Playground for Creativity

Journey down the vendor aisles at an AQS QuiltWeek show and immerse yourself in a world of pure imagination! Take a look and you’ll find the latest and greatest products the quilting world has to offer.

SPECIAL QUILT EXHIBITS

On the Silk Road by Chevy ChaseON THE SILK ROAD by Barbara Korengold
Hana Kasane-Flower Layering IV by Akemi SugiyamaHANA KASANE-FLOWER LAYERING IV by Akemi Sugiyama
Enchanted by Dawn SidenENCHANTED by Dawn Siden & Joyce Grafe

AQS Medallion Inspirations Collection Special Exhibit

Discover the artistry of Medallion Quilts in the AQS Medallion Inspirations Collection Special Exhibit, sponsored by Electric Quilt! Featuring 20 exquisite quilts selected from the AQS 2025 Call for Quilts, this exhibit celebrates the timeless beauty, creativity, and craftsmanship of the Medallion style. Each quilt, with its striking central motif and intricate borders, is a testament to the diverse talents of quilters from across the country. Visitors will be inspired by the variety of designs and techniques that breathe new life into a beloved quilting style. Join us for an inspirational experience that honors both the tradition and innovation found in today’s quilting community.

Electric Quilt

Valerie BothellValerie Bothell
Kathy Seaman ShawKathy Seaman Shaw
Tricia PattersonTricia Patterson

AQS Creativity Challenge: My Dream ____Cabana (You Fill in the Fun!)

Escape to your dream getaway! This AQS special exhibit, sponsored by WonderFil, showcases a collection of quilts inspired by the idea of the dream cabana. From cozy sewing spaces to vibrant gardens, serene mountain retreats, wintry wonderlands, and tranquil fishing spots, these quilts capture the essence of relaxation and personal paradise.

WonderFil Specialty Threads

Michelle PophalMichelle Pophal
Karen CoatesKaren Coates
Kathy NausleyENCHANTED by Dawn Siden

Cherrywood Challenge: Poppy - Petal & Seed

This year's challenge invited quilters from around the world to capture the beauty and poignant symbolism of the poppy flower. The poppy, a vibrant red bloom, holds a special place in history as a symbol of remembrance for those who served and sacrificed during World War I. Soldiers on the Western Front often encountered fields of poppies, and the flower became a poignant reminder of the war's impact.

The challenge encouraged quilters to interpret the poppy's symbolism using a limited palette of eight Cherrywood's hand-dyed fabrics. Explore a world of color and texture as you wander through the exhibit, marveling at the diverse techniques and embellishments employed by the quiltmakers. From traditional piecing to modern applique, each quilt offers a unique perspective on the poppy's enduring symbolism.

Cyndi AndersonCyndi Anderson
Mary AsmusMary Asmus
Ruth McCormickRuth McCormick

Name That Tune by Art Quilt Guild - Oakland

Get ready to hum along! Members of the Art Quilt Guild-Oakland, Michigan present Name That Tune, a vibrant exhibit of 18" x 18" quilts inspired by music. From the playful melodies of children's songs, the dramatic scores of Broadway musicals, and the electrifying energy of rock 'n' roll, these quilts offer unique visual interpretations of beloved tunes. Each quilt offers a unique visual interpretation of its chosen tune, showcasing the versatility of fiber art.

ROSE’S ROARING FANS by Laura Pomes – Frankfort, ILROSE’S ROARING FANS by Laura Pomes – Frankfort, IL

TWILIGHT O’ER THE CHRYSLER BUILDING by Susan Mogan – Mobile, ALTWILIGHT O’ER THE CHRYSLER BUILDING by Susan Mogan – Mobile, AL

AT THE OWL BAR by Sheila Riess – Ellicott City, MD AT THE OWL BAR by Sheila Riess – Ellicott City, MD

New Quilts from an Old Favorite: Roaring Twenties

The 2024 New Quilts From an Old Favorite: Roaring Twenties exhibition showcases 40 extraordinary quilts from 21 US states and three other countries (Netherlands, Germany, Taiwan). This exciting exhibition, organized by The National Quilt Museum, challenges quilters worldwide to select a traditional quilt block pattern and reimagine it through the vibrant lens of the Roaring Twenties.

Expect to see a dazzling array of quilts showcasing innovative designs, exquisite techniques, and a captivating blend of historical inspiration and contemporary artistry. From dazzling Art Deco motifs to the energetic jazz age spirit, these quilts offer a fresh perspective on beloved patterns while celebrating the unique creativity of quilters from across the globe.

Quilting in the Ozarks

Start with an Inspiring Pattern. We all have fabric we love that we bought without a pattern in mind. Whether you have precuts, fat quarters, or yardage, we have a pattern for you! Quilts & Quilts The Fabric Shoppe is operated by three generations of quiltmakers located in the heart of the Ozarks in Branson, Missouri.


The Shoppe features hundreds of patterns for every level of quiltmaker from beginner to advanced. This exhibit includes quilts that start with precuts like Just Seams or Shabby Squares, both are perfect for a beginning quilter. Quilts that use fat quarters to make a stunning design like Venetian Windows or Fatties. We also have quilts to showcase a favorite print or batik, like Mineral Matrix or Lush. Check out the variety of colors and techniques in these quilts, then choose your favorite quilt and order the pattern today.
Patterns can be ordered from Quilt & Quilts The Fabric Shoppe by scanning the QR code on the tag of each quilt.

Beets by Mike EllingsenBEETS by Mike Ellingsen
Jane’s Peppery Flower Patch 2 by Roberta HassJANE’S PEPPERY FLOWER PATCH 2 by Roberta Hass
Heirloom Tomatoes by Sweet YoungHEIRLOOM TOMATOES by Sweet Young

Seed Savers by NorthEast Iowa Quilters' Guild

Inspired by the vibrant imagery of the Seed Savers Exchange Catalog, members of the NorthEast Iowa Quilter's Guild (NEIQG) have transformed Seed Saver packaging into fun and quirky quilts. Each quilter selected a photo from the catalog—a celebration of heirloom seeds and gardening—as the starting point for their unique quilt. From literal interpretations to abstract designs, in a variety of sizes and techniques, the creative possibilities were endless. These exceptional quilts premiered at the NEIQG show in Decorah, Iowa, in October 2022.

TURKISH TREASURES by Pat HollyTURKISH TREASURES by Pat Holly
PAISLEY PEACOCK by Pat HollyPAISLEY PEACOCK by Pat Holly
THE BEATLES QUILT by Pat Holly & Sue NickelsTHE BEATLES QUILT by Pat Holly & Sue Nickels

Two of Us: Quilts by Pat Holly and Sue Nickels

Discover the collaborative artistry of Pat Holly and Sue Nickels. For decades, sisters Pat Holly and Sue Nickels have shared a passion for quilting. This exhibit features 29 stunning quilts, including their award-winning collaborative works and individual masterpieces, such as Pat’s extraordinary miniature quilts. Renowned for their innovative use of machine techniques, their quilts showcase exceptional artistry in machine piecing, appliqué, and quilting.

Enhance your experience with interactive QR codes on each quilt tag, providing access to exclusive videos where Sue and Pat share insights into their creative process and the unique features of each quilt.

BERNINA

Quilt Show Lodging

Marriott

Headquarter Hotel:


Hartford Marriott Downtown
200 Columbus Boulevard
Hartford, CT 06103-2807
Phone: +1 860-249-8000

The American Quilter’s Society Hotel Block, with discounted pricing, will be available for booking in May 2025.

AQS Rate: $249 per night (+Taxes)

  • Available for nights between Tuesday, April 7th - Sunday, April 12th, 2026

Must book your room through the American Quilter’s Society Hotel Block to receive the discounted rate.

Must Book: March 5, 2026

The Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton
351 Pitkin Street
East Hartford, CT 06108
Phone: 860-282-2500

AQS Rate: $159 per night (+Taxes)

  • Available for nights between Sunday, April 5th - Sunday, April 12th, 2026

Must book your room through the American Quilter’s Society Hotel Block to receive the discounted rate.

Must Book: March 5, 2026

The Goodwin Hartford
1 Haynes Street,
Hartford, Connecticut 06103
860-246-1881

AQS Rate: $220 per night (+Taxes)

  • Available for nights between Tuesday, April 7th - Sunday, April 12th, 2026

Book directly via the online link OR call The Goodwin front desk at 860-246-1881 and reference that you are with ‘AQS-QuiltWeek’ to receive these discounted rates.

Must Book: March 2, 2026

DoubleTree by Hilton Hartford Downtown
315 Trumbull Street,
Hartford, CT 06103
(860) 728-5151

AQS Rate: $214 per night (+Taxes)

  • Available for nights between Tuesday, April 7th - Sunday, April 12th, 2026

Guests can place their reservations under the group by calling the Hilton's toll-free reservation line (800) 754-7941 and requesting the “Quilt Week Hartford 2026” group block or using the direct booking link.

Must Book: March 5, 2026

More Hotel Information to come soon!


SCOOTERS/WHEELCHAIRS
Scooters and wheelchairs will be available to rent during AQS QuiltWeek Branson 2024.

You can reserve your Mobility scooter or wheelchair from Branson Mobility for AQS QuiltWeek Branson Convention Center, March 12–15, 2025.

Rental Rates:

Scooters: Available to rent for Half day or Full day

  • Full day (6 hours) = $55
  • Half day (1 - 4 hours) = $40

Wheelchairs: Available to rent for Half day or Full day

  • Full day (6 hours) = $45
  • Half day (1 - 4 hours) = $30

Please call Branson Mobility at 417-231-2860 to make a reservation.


Reserved Scooters and Wheelchairs can be picked up at the Scooter Booth, across from the AQS Information Center, just outside the Exhibit Hall. You must make payment, sign the paperwork, and pick up the key at the Scooter Booth.

Remember, Scooters must be returned one hour before the show closes each day.

  • 4 p.m. on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday
  • 3 p.m. on Saturday

Volunteers/Charities

Greater Hartford Quilt Guild

The American Quilter's Society is pleased to announce its partnership with the Greater Hartford Quilt Guild (GHQG) for AQS QuiltWeek - New England in 2026. As is tradition at each AQS QuiltWeek event, AQS partners with a local guild and their designated charity. GHQG will play a vital role in assisting AQS with the hanging of quilts and will also host their raffle quilt, manage package check, and organize AQS’s Sit & Sew event to benefit a charity of their choice.

Quilt Appraisals

Quilt Appraisals

AQS Certified Quilt Appraisers will appraise new or antique/vintage quilts for insurance replacement, or for sale or donation purposes.

No appointment is necessary, but you can contact Michelle Thompson at 270-898-7903, ext. 132 or michelle.thompson@americanquilter.com to schedule a day and time.

Walk-in appraisals for AQS QuiltWeek - Branson 2025 will be held Thursday and Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Appraisal Fee: $99 per quilt, payable at the AQS Information Center prior to the appraisal.

You’ll receive your written appraisal no later than 30 days after the close of the show.

While You’re Waiting…

Take a look at past Quilt Contest Winners on AQSBlog.

Best of Show
2025 AQS QuiltWeek - Daytona Beach,
Best of Show Award

HEARTWARMING DAYS by Aki Sakai

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Thank You to Our Sponsors

National Brand Partners

AccuQuilt         BERNINA