Celebrate art, music and community at the 2026 St. Johns River Festival of the Arts in Downtown Sanford
- Alastair Mac
- 19 minutes ago
- 2 min read
With great weather ahead, the St. Johns River Festival of the Arts is taking over Historic Downtown Sanford April 25 - 26.
One of Central Florida’s most beloved art festivals is back. The St. Johns River Festival of the Arts returns to the brick-lined streets of Historic Downtown Sanford on April 25–26, 2026, bringing together more than 140 acclaimed artists from across the country for a weekend of art, music and community.
Now in its 15th year, the juried fine arts festival transforms downtown Sanford into an open-air gallery, where visitors can explore everything from paintings and sculpture to jewelry, photography and mixed media, all while enjoying live entertainment, local food and interactive art experiences.
“We’re excited to welcome the community back for another year of incredible art and energy in Historic Downtown Sanford,” said Kim House, president of the St. Johns River Festival of the Arts. “This event continues to grow thanks to the support of our sponsors, volunteers and the City of Sanford, and we’re proud to create a space where artists and the community can connect, and a continuing Art-for-Kids Scholarship Program".
The free, family-friendly event features free admission and free parking, making it an easy and accessible weekend outing for locals and visitors alike. Festival footprints span First Street, Myrtle Avenue, Palmetto Avenue and 2nd Street, showcasing Sanford’s vibrant downtown. Where there are plenty of great restaurants, shops and pubs.
With an anticipated attendance of more than 60,000 guests with good weather, the festival offers something for all ages, including:
140+ juried fine art exhibitors
Live music and entertainment throughout the weekend
Culinary Arts Food Court and craft beer offerings
Live art demonstrations and interactive experiences
Art demos and hands-on activities at the Art-for-Kids activity tent
Artists will compete for more than $15,000 in awards, selected by a panel of fine art jurors.
As a nonprofit 501(c)(3), the festival also supports its “Art-for-Kids” program, which provides art education and scholarships for children in Seminole County, helping foster creativity and access to the arts regardless of financial ability.
For more information, visit www.stjohnsriverartfest.com.
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