DESTIN, FLORIDA, MATTIE KELLY ANNUAL FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS

OCTOBER 24th & 25th, 2026

The Annual Mattie Kelly Festival of the Arts, produced by Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation (MKAF), is one of the Southeast’s premier juried art festivals. A weekend celebration of art, music, food and family fun, is staged in the MKAF Cultural Arts Village in Destin, Florida. The panhandle's premiere fine arts festival is this month! Stroll outdoor tents Saturday (9 a.m. to 5 p.m.) and Sunday (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) to browse original artwork by more than 100 premier artists from across the United States. Enjoy in person artist demos, live music, creative children’s activities, street performers, food truck fare, beer & wine garden and more. Join in the festivities and cast your vote for the People’s Choice Award (Saturday) and give Dorothy your vote! Also, check out more local art in the Collaborative Art Exhibit, which showcases local artists and students. This weekend event is free for attendees. In its 31st year, the Festival of the Arts offers continuous live music, artist demonstrations and art projects for children as well as local cuisine. As a one of the Foundation’s signature events, the Festival of the Arts helps us fulfill our mission to enhance and inspire every life through Arts and Culture.