2026 St. Johns River Festival of the Arts Returns to Sanford April 25–26

- Michelle Snow
St. Johns River Festival of the Arts
St. Johns River Festival of the Arts

The St. Johns River Festival of the Arts returns to the brick-lined streets of Historic Downtown Sanford the weekend of 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.

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 StJohnsRiverArtFest.com.

About Michelle Snow

Michelle is the owner and editor of CitySurfing Orlando. She also owns Zengrrl.com, is a freelance writer specializing in travel and entertainment, has authored/co-authored four guidebooks on Orlando and Florida, and was head editor/writer at TheDisneyBlog.com for 10 years. She's lived in Orlando near Walt Disney World since 1995, and still finds there's so much fun to be had in Central Florida.
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