ArtsQuest Fine Arts Festival provides the perfect palette for on Mother’s Day weekend, May 9th – 11th, in Grand Boulevard at Sandestin. Now in its 26th year, ArtsQuest is one of the region’s most highly revered fine arts festivals, and is produced by the Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County (CAA).

This year’s festival features something for the entire family, from a new long-term home at Grand Boulevard that offers ample parking and amenities to more than 150 national, regional and local artist exhibits, live art demonstrations, gourmet food, beach cocktails, live music and kids’ entertainment.

ArtsQuest guests will enjoy live demonstrations throughout the weekend from Emerald Coast Woodturners Guild, McGee’s Pottery, Carol Dixon Basketweaving, Plein Air Painters, Margaret Rogers and Meyer Boarding Company Interactive Exhibit.

Local galleries will participate in Gallery Nights on Wednesday, May 7th and Thursday, May 8th, offering special parties, showings and events, all in the spirit of ArtsQuest.

This tour of special gallery events is open to the public.

Wednesday, May 7th, Starting at 5pm                 

— A. Wickey Studio and Gallery in Seacrest

— Grayton Artist Collective at The Shops of Grayton

— Geana’s Art Gallery in Destin

Thursday, May 8th, Starting at 5pm

— The Blue Giraffe in WaterColor

— Colorfield Gallery in Seacrest

— Justin Gaffrey Studio & Gallery in Seaside

Friday’s festivities also get a boost this year with a new After Hours Bacardi Beach Bash at Grand Park in Grand Boulevard from 8-11 pm. This party is complimentary and open to the public, offering a cash bar featuring tropical Bacardi cocktails and Grayton Beer along with live music by Cadillac Willy.

The addition of food trucks will further spice up the weekend with fresh, handmade offerings from Longleaf Mobile Kitchen and Foodie Dietrich. As always, guests will enjoy continuous live music throughout the festival weekend.

For more info, visit ArtsQuest or call 850-622-5970.