The Great Gulfcoast Arts Festival is among the best-regarded, most popular arts festivals in the United States. The three-day, juried art show draws over 200 of the nation’s best painters, potters, sculptors, jewelers, graphic artists, artisans, and other artists.
Sunshine Artist magazine ranks the Great Gulfcoast Arts Festival as the 18th top art festival in the nation in 2024 based on artists’ evaluations.
Live musicians hit the right notes from the Main Stage with sounds ranging from bluegrass to Cajun and blues to jazz and classical.
Performing companies, dance schools, community groups, and area folk groups have their time to shine.
Heritage Artists demonstrate traditional arts, crafts, and trades, including woodcarving, engraving, spinning, weaving, and other skills in the Heritage Arts Area.
Children become artists at the Children’s Arts Festival with numerous hands-on art activities. All children’s art activities are free, fun, and geared toward children toddler age and older. The Student Art Show showcases the talents of both private and public school students of Escambia and Santa Rosa Counties. Over 2,000 art pieces from elementary, middle, and high school students will be displayed.
Start early in the food court with breakfast cinnamon rolls and specialty coffees. Move on to various options, including TexMex, BBQ, Asian, Cajun, American, and Greek favorites, plus a raw bar and grilled sandwiches. Before you leave, check out more desserts and ice cream choices.