🖼️ The Destin Festival of the Arts invites you to apply - October 24 - 25, 2026

OCTOBER 24 - 25, 2026

(Application Deadline: July 1, 2026)

$12,000 in Cash Awards... 105 Artists...

The Festival of the Arts, one of the Southeast’s premier art festivals showcases over 105 premier artists plus collaborative artists from the United States and Europe. Artists compete for $12,000 in cash awards representing 18 different mediums in an outdoor walking exhibit production. Additional amenities include live music, a food court, wine, bloody mary and beer garden, and an adult/student collaborative art exhibit.

Awards include, Best in Show, People’s Choice Award, Awards of Excellence, Awards of Merit and Judge’s Recognition Awards.

In its 31st 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.