MKAF 31st Annual Festival of the Arts

Now in its 31st year, the Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation Festival of the Arts is one of Northwest Florida's most beloved and prestigious cultural events, drawing art lovers and collectors from across the Southeast each October. More than 100 juried artists from across the United States set up their tents in the beautiful Mattie Kelly Cultural Arts Village — a stunning outdoor gallery shaded by ancient oaks — to showcase and sell original works across 22 fine art mediums.

From oil paintings and watercolors to sculpture, glass, jewelry, photography, and original digital art, the breadth of talent on display is remarkable. Artists compete for $10,000 in cash prizes, making this a serious juried show that attracts premier talent year after year. Whether you are an avid collector or simply someone who appreciates extraordinary handcrafted work, the caliber of art here is genuinely impressive — and you can bring a piece of it home.

The festival is also a community celebration, with live entertainment and activities for all ages filling the weekend. Families, couples, and art enthusiasts stroll the exhibits, chat with artists about their craft, and enjoy the crisp fall weather that makes October on the Emerald Coast so magical. It's a wonderful reminder that Destin is so much more than just beautiful beaches.