Monday, April 24, 2023

St. Johns River Festival of the Arts Returns to Historic Downtown Sanford (April 29 +30)

Over 55,000 visitors of all ages are expected to take over the iconic brick streets of Downtown Sanford in April for the return of the St. Johns River Festival of the Arts. 

The 11th Annual St. Johns River Festival of the Arts will take place Saturday, April 29, 2023 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday April 30, 2023 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., bringing over 150 acclaimed local, regional and national artists to the heart of Sanford.



“We’re so happy to once again create an opportunity for the community to be face-to-face with art and creativity from so many talented artists,” said Kim House, president of St. Johns River Festival of the Arts. “This event wouldn’t be possible without our sponsors and support from the city and volunteers, and we’re so grateful to everyone who makes it a success each year.”  

The festival is free to attend with free parking, and features excellent food, live music, Art-in-Action, sculpture, pottery, jewelry, quaint shops and restaurants. The total event route encompasses First Street, Myrtle Avenue, Palmetto Avenue, and 2nd Street in Historic Downtown Sanford.

Daily Festival Features:
150+ Art Exhibitors 
Live Music Entertainment 
Culinary Arts Food Court 
Craft Beer 
Art Workshops 

The mission of The St. Johns River Festival of the Arts in Historic Sanford, Florida is to enrich the quality of life in the community by cultivating an arts and cultural environment that offers venues to educate and stimulate the appreciation and advancement of both. 

The festival will offer a variety of experiences, including live art demonstrations, and will feature a variety of art media, from painting and pottery to sculpture and jewelry.  

Two fine art jurors will select the best pieces, and $15,000 in prizes will be awarded to art and craft winners. 




As a non-profit 501C (3), the St. Johns River Festival of the Arts proudly sponsors “Art-for-Kids,” a scholarship program designed to encourage an appreciation and understanding of the arts. Proceeds from the art festival provide art instruction and education to children in Seminole County regardless of their ability to pay, in a safe, full service art center. 

“The festival is meant for the community to enjoy,” said Liz Darwick, treasurer of St. Johns River Festival of the Arts. “We hope this year’s festival will continue its tradition of bringing people together for the sake of art appreciation and fostering that appreciation in future generations.” 

For more information, visit www.stjohnsriverartfest.com