ArtsQuest Fine Arts Festival Returns to Grand Boulevard Oct 9-10

In its 33rd year, the ArtsQuest Fine Arts Festival is scheduled to return to Grand Boulevard’s Town Center Saturday, October 9th, 10:00 am to 7:00 pm and Sunday, October 10th, 10:00 am - 5:00 pm.

Usually held over Mother’s Day weekend, this year’s festival was rescheduled due to the pandemic and will be part of National Arts & Humanities Month which was established in 1993 by Americans for the Arts and is celebrated every October in the United States. It was initiated to encourage Americans to explore new facets of the arts and humanities in their lives, and to begin a lifelong habit of participation in the arts and humanities.

ArtsQuest is a juried show that provides an opportunity to view and purchase original art from over 100 local and national artists and includes art in the categories of Ceramics, Fiber, Glass, Jewelry, Metal, Mixed Media, Oils & Acrylics, Original Digital Art, Photography, Sculpture, Wood and Works on Paper (Watercolor, Printmaking, Pastels, Pencils, Ink). ArtsQuest awards $10,000 in cash prizes.

This year’s event will also offer a CAA member artist exhibit, Artist live demos, ImagiNation (where kids rule) featuring the Uniquely Clever Art Bus, and continuous live music from local favorites including Mari Gleason, Sarah Anne Davidson, Mike Whitty & Friends, Chris Alvarado, Max McCann, Gileah and Chris Taylor, Ohana Rock On The Road, New Orleans Ramblers, Mose Wilson, and more! A full cash bar will be available throughout the weekend in Grand Park.

ArtsQuest is a beloved Cultural Arts Alliance signature event that helps fulfill the organization’s mission to support the arts through leadership, advocacy, funding, programs and education. As the creative core of Walton County, the CAA offers support, connection and access opportunities for all forms of art, every variety of maker, all levels of learners, and especially, art lovers. Through sponsorship, performance, and educational programs, the organization directly connects the people of Walton County with the broader view, the critical exploration, and the answers only the Arts have the power to provide.

The event is presented by Grand Boulevard with additional support from Visit South Walton, the Florida Department of State, Division of Arts and Culture, Alys Foundation, Silver Sands Premium Outlets, The Blue Giraffe, The Odd Pelican Beer Co. and Emerald Coast Magazine.

ArtsQuest is a rain or shine outdoor event. The festival is open to the public, and a $5 admission donation is requested.