Description

Art-a-Fest will Celebrate 53 Years in 2026!

This festival fulfills an important role in the community and surrounding areas by supporting and celebrating local and regional artists. Our goal is to make the arts accessible to all members of our community during this one-day, free event! 

Each year our committee works hard to make the event a success for exhibitors and shoppers. Area businesses and individuals interested in promoting and encouraging the arts help sponsor the event with financial contributions. Cash prizes are awarded to artists whose work is judged superior, and Art-a-fest bucks are awarded to lucky shoppers to purchase artwork.

With interactive arts activities for children, live performing artists, and delicious food from a variety of local and regional vendors, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

The event is located on the lawns of Central Park, in downtown Charles City, Iowa. Art-a-Fest is a rain or shine event, and will only be canceled in the event of severe and dangerous weather. The local Farmers Market will also be set up adjacent to the park until noon.

Apply or Register for Art-a-Fest 2026

Artists are welcome and encouraged to apply! We also welcome food vendors, service vendors, and non-profit organizations supporting the arts to apply/register. 

- Artists & Non-Profit Groups: The deadline to apply is May 31, 2026. 

- Emerging Artists: The deadline to apply is June 15, 2026.

- Food & Service Vendors: The deadline to register is July 31, 2026

Apply / Register on our website: https://www.charlescityartafest.com/apply2026

Donate to Art-a-Fest

Art-a-Fest is all about uniting people and enhancing our community through art. It showcases cultural and artistic diversity, gets local residents engaged, supports artists and vendors, and strengthens our local economy.

Our annual event is only made possible by the generous financial support from local & regional businesses and individuals. We deeply appreciate every charitable donation that sustains Art-a-Fest - one of the longest running art festivals in Iowa. This invaluable support guarantees the event’s success, attracting large crowds and encouraging artists to return each year. 

Learn More.