Welcome to New Smyrna Beach, a vibrant seaside town bathed in the golden Florida sun, where the salty breeze dances with the sweet scent of creativity.
In today’s blog post, we’re taking you on a colorful journey through the heart of New Smyrna Beach as we dive deep into the Annual Festival of the Art in New Smyrna Beach. We’ll explore the rich tapestry of this beloved event, delving into its captivating history, its exciting entertainment schedule, and where to stay to make the most of your visit.
The Annual Festival Of The Arts In New Smyrna is an enchanting showcase of creativity, where artists from far and wide converge to display their masterpieces, making it a must-visit for art lovers and culture seekers alike.
New Smyrna Beach events and festivals are the epitome of Florida charm, and this fan-favorite New Smyrna Beach art festival is no exception. Let’s take a look at some of the fun things you expect!
About Images Festival Of The Arts
IMAGES is not your run-of-the-mill art festival; it’s a stellar free event that’s been ranked 18th in the nation for fine art festivals by Sunshine Artist Magazine in 2023. Talk about a big deal, right?
This festival is where 53,000+ art enthusiasts gather in Downtown New Smyrna Beach for a weekend of art, fun, and culture with a whopping $30,000 in cash awards for artists, an incredible Patron Program that’s one of the best in the Southeast, and 225+ talented artists showcasing their work! There is so much to see and do at the festival, and it is a fun, family-friendly event you won’t want to miss out on while staying in one of our New Smyrna Beach vacation rentals.
History Of The Festival
Let’s take a stroll down memory lane and uncover the fascinating history that brings the Atlantic Center for the Arts and IMAGES: A Festival of the Arts together. This is a tale of artistic evolution, community spirit, and a shared vision that has enriched the cultural life of New Smyrna Beach.
Back in 1976, the seeds of IMAGES were sown by the visionary Doris Leeper, alongside the creative force of graphic designer Holly Bivins and a dedicated team of volunteers. Their first fundraiser, held at Leeper’s serene riverfront hideaway in Canaveral National Seashore, marked the modest inception of something far grander than anyone could have imagined.
The inaugural IMAGES festival in February 1977 embodied the core spirit of what would later blossom into the Atlantic Center for the Arts. It was a harmonious blend of diverse art forms, foreshadowing Doris Leeper’s dream of establishing a vibrant artists-in-residence community.
Fast forward to the present, and the Atlantic Center for the Arts has evolved into a global epicenter for artists-in-residence. Nestled across 69 scenic acres along the pristine Turnbull Bay, it provides artists from various disciplines with an idyllic setting to live, create, and collaborate. Its cutting-edge program has earned international acclaim, boasting a range of studios, a resource library, a gallery, and much more.
Each residency session features three distinguished master artists from diverse artistic backgrounds, who, in turn, select their own team of emerging artists. The result is a dynamic, collaborative, and inspirational environment where artists have the time and space to both create and rejuvenate.
Join us on this enchanting journey and become part of the history of art, creativity, and community in New Smyrna Beach by attending the next edition of The Annual Festival of the Arts in New Smyrna.
Plan Your Visit
Make your vacation dreams a reality with NSB Realty Team. Our New Smyrna Beach rentals put you close to all the best attractions, fun activities, and festivals New Smyrna Beach offers, making them the perfect home base for your beach adventure. View all of our rentals and start planning your escape today!
Entertainment
Get ready to groove because the 48th Annual IMAGES: A Festival of the Arts is turning up the volume on fun with an incredible lineup of entertainment!
From January 26 to 28, 2024, Riverside Park will be the place to be! On Friday, January 26, the festival kicks off at 1 PM and doesn’t stop until 5 PM. The Brannon Civic Center will host the Patron’s Lounge, where you can learn about the perks of being a Patron. Meanwhile, live music on the main stage will feature Savi Fernandez, so expect some epic Pop/Rock/Folk tunes!
Saturday, January 27, is jam-packed with excitement from 9 AM to 5 PM. The Patron’s Lounge at the Brannon Civic Center is your spot to learn more about Patron benefits. In the Creative Education Area, you’ll find a Student Art Exhibit, free art projects, demonstrations, and a photo booth. The main stage is ready to rock with performances from Steel Pan Man, Lords of Surf, Savi Fernandez Band, and more!
Sunday, January 28, keeps the party going from 10 AM to 4 PM. The Brannon Civic Center’s Patrons’ Lounge welcomes all curious souls looking to explore the benefits of being a Patron, and the main stage hosts incredible performances from NSB High School Hothouse Jazz Band, Chaz Underriner Quintet, Soul Taxi ft. Jeff White and Brown Bag Brass Band. After a night of fun, be sure to spot at one of the nearby New Smyrna Beach restaurants to grab dinner before heading back to your rental!
With so much to see and experience, it’s easy to see why IMAGES is one of the top New Smyrna Beach festivals!
Festival Rules
To ensure this festival is a delightful experience for all attendees, it is essential to follow a few key rules to ensure a safe and enjoyable environment for everyone.
First and foremost, all attendees are encouraged to show the utmost respect for the incredible art on display. Please refrain from touching any of the exhibited works, as this will help preserve the art’s integrity and protect it for everyone to enjoy.
Additionally, maintaining the cleanliness and eco-friendly atmosphere of the festival is of utmost importance. Visitors are asked to dispose of all trash in the designated bins provided throughout the festival grounds to ensure that the festival remains a beautiful and welcoming space for all.
Alcohol consumption is permitted but only in designated areas. Attendees should consume alcohol responsibly and in these designated zones to help create a safe and enjoyable environment for all.
By wholeheartedly embracing these guidelines, festival visitors can immerse themselves in the captivating world of art and culture while contributing to the creation of a warm, harmonious, and inclusive festival environment.
Book Your New Smyrna Beach Vacation Rental with NSB Realty Team
If you’re dreaming of a relaxing vacation by the sea, our New Smyrna Beach condo rentals and vacation homes are here to make your dreams come true!
At NSB Realty Team, we take immense pride in offering you a seamless blend of comfort and luxury in our accommodations, guaranteeing that your stay is nothing short of extraordinary. Whether you’re planning a memorable family vacation or a romantic couple escape, we have the perfect New Smyrna Beach rental to call home while you’re here.
Don’t wait any longer—secure your New Smyrna Beach vacation rental with our NSB Realty Team now and start planning the perfect beach retreat today!
