38th Annual ArtsQuest Festival At Grand Boulevard May 2 & 3

The Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County (CAA) kicks off Art Month in Walton County with the 38th Annual ArtsQuest Fine Arts Festival on May 2 & 3, 2026.

ArtsQuest will once again transform the Town Center of Grand Boulevard into a vibrant celebration of creativity. The popular town center offers upscale shopping, diverse dining, and three on-site hotels, all within steps of the festival.

View the 2026 ArtsQuest Fine Arts Festival Artist Directory - searchable by first name, last name and medium. 

Now in its 38th year, ArtsQuest continues to be a centerpiece of the regional arts scene, drawing thousands of art lovers and collectors eager to experience and purchase original works.

“ArtsQuest is a true celebration of creativity and community,” said CAA Events Director Allie Anderson. “Each year, we are inspired by the extraordinary talent on display, and we are thrilled to welcome artists back to showcase their works and connect with new audiences.”

Grand Boulevard and the surrounding area offer affordable accommodations, including hotels, camping and condo and home rentals. Limited discounted hotel accommodations will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis.

ArtsQuest Fine Arts Festival is a featured event for Art Month Walton County 

Strolling through Grand Park, attendees will discover original works from over 150 talented artists traveling from across the country. The competition is intense, with $10,000 in cash prizes awarded across categories ranging from glass and sculpture to oils and digital art. While the festival is open to the public, a $5–$10 donation is encouraged at the gate to support the CAA’s mission of fostering creativity throughout Walton County.

The weekend offers much more than a gallery walk. The "ImagiNation" area provides a space where kids rule with hands-on activities, while adults can enjoy art demonstrations, a silent auction, and a full cash bar. For a deeper look at the CAA's community impact, don’t miss the student exhibits and the moving display from the Prison Art program.

To elevate your Saturday, join the ArtsQuest Wine Walk from 5–7 PM. This lively evening tasting allows you to sip fine wines while enjoying exclusive offers from the artists and merchants of Grand Boulevard.

What are the event hours?
The festival is scheduled for Saturday, May 2 from 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. and Sunday, May 3 from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Event maps will be available for festival goers at the entrances.

Is there an admission fee?
There is a $5-$10 suggested donation to attend via cash or Venmo at the gates. Funds raised help us continue to offer high quality arts programming and community-wide events throughout the year. 

Where do I park?
Parking, including ADA parking, is available throughout Grand Boulevard Town Center. Follow 'Event Parking' signs.

Will there be food and beverages available?
Yes! We will have a full cash bar as well as sweet treats from Hello Sugar and fresh lemonade from Glory Bee's. Grand Boulevard is also home to 16 fantastic restaurants.

What happens if it rains?
ArtsQuest is a rain-or-shine event, so come prepared to enjoy the fun no matter the weather! A little rain is currently in the forecast for Saturday, but we’ve got plenty to keep the good vibes flowing—just bring your umbrella and your festival spirit. Need a quick weather reprieve? Grand Boulevard offers plenty of great shopping and dining options to keep you dry and delighted! 

What type of artists are participating?
ArtsQuest will feature more than 120 fine artists exhibiting and selling their work in Grand Boulevard’s North Park. Mediums include Ceramics, Sculpture, Glass, Oils, Acrylics, Mixed Media, Photography, Sculpture, Metal and Wood, Jewelry, Works on Paper, and more. These exhibiting artists from around the United States will compete for awards and cash prizes totaling $10,000. View participating artists on our website.

ArtsQuest will feature 20 local artists in the Collaborative Exhibit, over 200 works by Walton County students, and a Northwest Florida State College Emerging Artist Exhibit. You will also enjoy live art demos by Emerald Coast Woodturners, Glass Deer featuring Brit Deslonde, Artisan clothing by Mary Ellen DiMauro, CAA's Pottery Studio artists, and Allison Wickey who will offer special CAA member pricing on her custom totes.

Will there be live entertainment?
There will be continuous live music throughout the weekend from artists including Ohana Rock on the Road, Matt McCarty Quartet, The Steenos + John Reinlie, Aubrey Jane, Tom Pritchett, Balder Saunders & Matt Miller, Kalen Nash, Aslyn, Nathan Worthey, Gage Cowart, The 78's and Martha's Trouble.

What's New?
Join us Saturday, May 2 from 5–7 p.m. for the ArtsQuest Happy Hour, featuring artist Renée Broxson. Meet Renee as she signs posters and shares a specially crafted cocktail inspired by her work, then raise your glass to celebrate the official ribbon cutting of the newly named Donnelle Clark Reagin Collaborative Exhibit—an inspiring tribute to creativity, connection, and community. We will also offer happy hour discounts at the Festival bar!

Are there t-shirts available?
Yes, t-shirts, hats and other items will be available for sale at the merchandise tent. 

When will the student awards be presented?
Student awards will be presented on Sunday, May 5 at the main stage around 3 p.m.

What activities will be happening?
The Festival features a variety of activities and attractions for art enthusiasts of all ages. Attendees can look forward to a dynamic blend of visual, performing, and interactive arts experiences for all ages. Highlights include the CAA Member Artist Exhibit, Walton County student exhibitions, live art demonstrations, a powerful showcase from the CAA’s Prison Art Program, and interactive art activities for all ages. Festival goers can also explore ImagiNation, a hands-on creative space where kids take the lead.

Learn more about ArtsQuest and other Art Month events at CulturalArtsAlliance.com. 

The CAA serves as the creative core of our community, acting as the official Local Arts Agency since 1993. Their work extends far beyond festival weekend, supporting initiatives like the nation's first Underwater Museum of Art, the Watersound Monarch Art Trail, and the Bayou Arts Center on Hogtown Bayou. By providing grants through "Art For All" and collaborating with partners like the Point Washington Medical Clinic, the CAA ensures that the transformative power of the arts touches every corner of the county.

Whether you are a serious collector or just looking for an inspired weekend with the family, ArtsQuest offers a unique chance to connect with the artists who define our cultural landscape. For more information on year-round classes and public art projects, visit CulturalArtsAlliance.com.

Home of the CAA, The Bayou Arts Center is a venue for exhibits, classes, meetings and small events. Nestled among the long leaf pines on historic Hogtown Bayou, the Bayou Arts Center is a hidden gem and a peaceful destination for art, culture, heritage and nature. From summer programs for kids to Oil, Acrylic, Pottery, Fiber and Watercolor classes for adults, the CAA has a class for everyone. Please visit culturalartsalliance.com  to view upcoming workshops and call 850-622-5970 to register. Bayou Arts Center is located off Hwy. 393 North near Cessna Park.

Membership
Member support makes it possible for the CAA to fund children’s art education, student scholarships, and arts grants and to provide cultural enrichment to our growing community through ongoing cultural events and programs. Join, renew, or upgrade your membership ONLINE. Experience all the benefits of being a member of Walton County’s leading arts organization!