Festival of the Arts

About the Event

The Festival of the Arts, produced by Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation (MKAF), is one of the Southeast’s premier juried art festivals. A celebration of art, food and family fun, it is staged in the MKAF Cultural Arts Village in Destin. Stroll outdoor tents Saturday (9 a.m. to 5 p.m.) and Sunday (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) to browse original artwork by more than 100 premier artists from across the United States. Enjoy artist demos, live music, creative children’s activities, street performers, food truck fare, beer & wine garden and more. Join in the festivities and cast your vote for the People’s Choice Award (Saturday). This event is free for attendees. 

In its 29th year, the Festival of the Arts offers continuous live music, artist demonstrations and art projects for children as well as local cuisine.  The Festival is held in Destin, Florida an affluent and residential destination. 

Jurying is by three art industry professionals. Repeat attendance by the public insures potential multi-year sales. Presented on the grounds of the Mattie Kelly Cultural Arts Village, hospitality is a high priority.  Staff and volunteers work year-round to create a pleasant environment for artists.  Awards are given based on the Judges’ scoring of each artist’s body of work as displayed in their booth.  As a one of the Foundation’s signature events, the Festival of the Arts helps us fulfill our mission to enhance and inspire every life through Arts and Culture.

The $12,000 in cash awards include, Best in Show, People’s Choice Award, Awards of Excellence, Awards of Merit and Judge’s Recognition Awards. 

Dog Safety! Please, No Pets!

This event is not pet friendly. For the comfort and safety of all patrons, people with pets will be asked to kindly leave the event area, which is enforced through city ordinance. Only registered service animals are permitted. Thank you. 

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