The two-day Festival of the Arts is hosted by the Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation every October. One of Northwest Florida’s premier art shows, the 23rd Annual Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation’s Festival of the Arts features more than 200 artists from across the United States and Europe showcasing their art and competing for $10,000 in cash prizes.
The festival is a celebration of art, music, food, and fun. Entertainment also includes kids art activities, live music, Cuisine on the Green, Beer & Wine Garden and a student and adult collaborative art exhibit. There are 28 different categories and a Best in Show prize awarded.
History of the Festival of the Arts in Destin
In its 24th year, the Festival of the Arts brings together artists and aficionados in celebration of the educational, cultural, and spiritual vision of the community. The festival honors the late Mattie May Kelly, a lifelong supporter of the arts and a member of one of the town's founding families. The Kelly family moved to Destin in 1935 and purchased acres of forest along the Choctawhatchee Bay, and what is now called the Destin Harbor. Mattie May Kelly was a musician, composer, and writer herself.
Adult admission is $5, kids 12 and under are free. MKAF members are also free.
Festival of the Arts Hours
Saturday, October 27 | 9:00am - 5:00pm
Sunday, October 28 | 10:00am - 4:00pm
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