Festival of the Arts
April 22-25, 2027
VISUAL ARTISTS
Present your original fine art to more than 650,000 Festival guests in one of Oklahoma’s premier juried art festivals. We welcome artists working in painting, sculpture, ceramics, glass, fiber, jewelry, photography, mixed media, wood, printmaking, digital art, and other fine art mediums. Selected exhibitors become part of the iconic Plaza experience, connecting collectors and first-time buyers alike with exceptional artwork from across the country.
Deadline: Sept. 27
CULINARY ARTISTS
Create memorable culinary experiences that become part of the Festival tradition. From signature entrées and international cuisine to handcrafted desserts and specialty beverages, we’re looking for vendors who combine outstanding flavor, quality presentation, and efficient service. Festival guests come ready to explore, making this an opportunity to introduce new audiences to your menu while contributing to one of Oklahoma City’s most anticipated annual celebrations.
Deadline: Oct. 18
PERFORMING ARTISTS
Share your talent with thousands of Festival guests through live performances across our Main Stage and City Stage. Music, dance, theatre, circus arts, magic, and multidisciplinary acts are encouraged to apply. Festival programming celebrates a wide range of artistic expression, creating memorable experiences that energize downtown Oklahoma City while introducing audiences to established performers and emerging talent alike.
Deadline: Sept. 27
EMERGING ARTISTS
Designed for early-career fine artists ready to grow their festival experience, this mentorship program provides hands-on guidance while exhibiting alongside nationally recognized professionals. Participants receive reduced booth fees, mentorship, and valuable insight into presenting and selling artwork in a large-scale juried festival. Ideal applicants demonstrate exceptional artistic potential and are committed to developing a sustainable career in the visual arts.
Deadline: Sept. 27
CREATORS COLLECTIVE
Celebrate the creativity of Oklahoma’s makers with handcrafted goods, artisan foods, and unique locally produced products. Ideal for independent creators specializing in items such as candles, soaps, leather goods, textiles, woodworking, stationery, home décor, specialty foods, and other handcrafted wares, this marketplace offers Festival guests an opportunity to discover one-of-a-kind creations while supporting small businesses and local entrepreneurs.
Deadline: Oct. 18
YOUTH ART SALE
Young artists ages 8 through 18 are invited to showcase and sell their original artwork during Festival of the Arts. This unique opportunity encourages creative entrepreneurship while providing hands-on experience exhibiting work, interacting with patrons, and making sales in a professional festival environment. Whether you’re an emerging painter, sculptor, illustrator, photographer, or mixed media artist, this program celebrates the next generation of Oklahoma’s creative talent.
Deadline: Jan. 15, 2027
FRESH PAINT
This mentorship opportunity supports emerging BIPOC mural artists through professional development, collaboration, and public engagement. Selected participants work alongside established muralists to develop and complete large-scale works before thousands of Festival visitors, gaining valuable experience in public art, creative process, and community impact. Arts Council OKC and OKC Thunder invite artists with a passion for storytelling through murals and a desire to expand their practice to apply.
Deadline: Oct. 18
