Blue Ridges Arts in the Park (2025)

Blue Ridge’s Arts in the Park 2025 is the must-visit event of the year in Blue Ridge, Georgia. Happening annually in May and October, this bi-annual festival celebrates art with over 170 artists, live demonstrations, interactive exhibits, and family-friendly activities.

We'd love to host you at Blue Sky Cabin Rentals when you visit for the Arts in the Park festival. Here’s what you can expect and how to plan your visit to make the most of this cultural highlight.
 

What is Blue Ridge Arts in the Park?

Photo Credit: SLSK Photography

• When: May 24th and 25th, 2025 | October 11th and 12th, 2025
• Where: 420 W Main St, Blue Ridge, GA
• Families: Children under 12 are admitted free of charge

The Blue Ridge Arts in the Park festival is a celebration of fine arts and crafts that has become a beloved tradition in Blue Ridge, Georgia. Managed by the Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association, this event attracts over 170 artists and exhibitors, drawing more than 20,000 visitors annually.

The event is a testament to the area’s rich cultural tapestry and its commitment to fostering artistic expression. Held twice a year—in the spring and fall—the festival showcases a diverse range of arts and fine crafts, making it a must-visit for art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.

Imagine wandering through the beautiful Downtown city park, surrounded by booths brimming with unique handcrafted items. As you stroll, you’ll encounter artists eager to share their work and stories, offering a glimpse into their creative process through live demonstrations and interactive exhibits.

Enjoy delicious offerings from various food booths, enhancing the overall experience. Whether you’re an art collector, a casual shopper, or someone who simply loves handcrafted items, the Blue Ridge Arts in the Park festival offers a unique and rewarding experience.

A Family-Friendly Festival

One of the most charming aspects of the Arts in the Park festival is its family-friendly environment. The festival grounds are thoughtfully designed to cater to visitors of all ages, ensuring that everyone has a memorable time.

Children can engage in a variety of activities tailored just for them, including art stations and interactive performances that spark creativity and imagination. Designated play areas provide a safe and fun environment for the youngest attendees while parents can relax and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

Pets

Moreover, the festival’s inclusive spirit extends to our furry friends as well. Well behaved, leashed pets are welcome, making it a perfect weekend festival outing for the whole family.
 

Planning Your Visit to the 2025 Spring Arts in the Park

Photo Credit: Tsuguliev

To make the most of your visit to the 2025 Spring Arts in the Park, a bit of planning goes a long way. Held over Memorial Day weekend, this festival promises to be a highlight of the year, drawing thousands to the beautiful downtown city park. With numerous activities and exhibits, a plan will help you capture all the excitement.

Below, you’ll find details about event dates, schedule, venue, admission rates, and featured artists and exhibitors. Whether it’s your first visit or you’re a veteran, this guide will help you navigate the festival and maximize your weekend experience.

Spring 2025 Event Dates and Schedule

Mark your calendars for May 24th to 25th, 2025, when the Spring Arts in the Park festival will take place. Each day, the festival will be open from 10 AM to 5 PM, giving you ample time to explore the numerous exhibits and activities.

With events scheduled in 30-minute intervals, there’s always something new to see and experience. Make sure to arrive early, as exhibitors have their booths ready by 9 AM.

Venue Information

The Arts in the Park festival is held at the Art Center, located on West Main Street. Managed by the Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association, the venue is perfectly situated to host this lively event, which draws over 20,000 visitors during Memorial Day weekend.

Convenient parking at the Downtown City Park makes getting to the festival easy. Immerse yourself in the vibrant arts and fine crafts amidst beautiful surroundings.

Admission Rates

Admission to the Arts in the Park festival is affordable, with adult tickets priced at just $5 for 2025, while children under 12 can enter for free. This makes it an excellent value for families and groups.

Your admission fee supports the local art center, helping the Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association continue its educational programs and maintain community art facilities. Your visit sustains Blue Ridge’s thriving arts community.

Featured Artists and Exhibitors

The core of the Arts in the Park festival lies in its talented artists and fine crafts exhibitors who bring their unique creations to life. With over 175 exhibitors showcasing pottery, jewelry, textile arts, and more, there’s something for everyone. Discover works that highlight the creativity and skill of both emerging and established artisans at the park's fine arts center.

A festival highlight is the live demonstrations from multiple artists, offering a behind-the-scenes look at their creative processes. These interactive exhibits deepen appreciation for the craftsmanship and allow direct engagement with the artists.

Whether you’re looking to add a unique piece to your collection or simply enjoy the beauty of handmade art, the fine crafts festival held at the Arts in the Park festival is a treasure trove of inspiration.
 

Planning Ahead for the Fall 2025 Arts in the Park Festival

Photo Credit: Joanne Kent

While enjoying the Spring festival, consider planning for the Fall 2025 Arts in the Park festival, set for October 11th through 12th. This event promises to be equally captivating, featuring over 170 artists and vendors, local food and breweries, and a variety of family-friendly activities. Mark your calendar now to ensure you don’t miss this vibrant celebration of arts and culture.

The Fall festival offers a perfect opportunity to experience the beauty of Blue Ridge in a different season. The crisp autumn air and colorful foliage provide a stunning backdrop for the festival grounds, enhancing the overall experience. Be sure to enjoy all that the region offers during the Fall season, including one of our favorite fall activities, apple picking.

The Fall event will also feature fine crafts, delicious local food, and engaging activities for all ages, continuing the community spirit and artistic excellence of the Arts in the Park series. Plan your visit now to enjoy tasty food and experience the best of the festival's offerings.
 

Arts in the Parks Festival Info

The Arts in the Park festival series has been a cornerstone of the Blue Ridge community for nearly five decades, celebrating local and regional artists and fostering a vibrant arts culture. Being aware of the festival’s various aspects will ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

We’ll cover key information about accessibility, the festival’s rain or shine policy, and community support. Understanding these details will enhance your time at the festival and your appreciation for the efforts making it inclusive and enjoyable.

Whether you’re attending in the Spring or Fall, being well-informed will enhance your overall experience.

Accessibility & Services

The Arts in the Park festival strives to create an inclusive atmosphere for attendees of all backgrounds and abilities. The site includes designated ADA parking spots, accessible restrooms, and entrances. Support animals, wheelchairs, and scooters are welcome, ensuring accessibility for all visitors.

Be aware that the park has grassy, uneven terrain, which can become muddy in adverse weather. Despite these challenges, the festival aims to accommodate all attendees and provide a welcoming environment for everyone to enjoy the arts and fine crafts.

Rain or Shine Policy

The Arts in the Park festival is held rain or shine, with no alternative dates. Attendees should come prepared for any weather conditions, as the festival continues regardless.

Exhibitors are required to keep their booths operational throughout the event, even during adverse weather, ensuring that the festival remains a vibrant and engaging experience for all visitors.

Supporting the Community

Photo Credit: PeopleImages.com - Yuri A

A rewarding aspect of attending the Arts in the Park festival is that your participation directly supports the community. All proceeds benefit the Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association, funding various art initiatives and educational programs. These proceeds help maintain and operate community art facilities and galleries, ensuring that the arts thrive in Blue Ridge.

Additionally, the funds raised during the festival provide scholarships to local artists and students, fostering the next generation of creative talent. By attending the festival, you’re not only enjoying a rich cultural experience but also contributing to the growth and sustainability of the local arts community.
 

Frequently Asked Questions.

Is the festival accessible for people with disabilities?

Yes, the festival is accessible for people with disabilities, featuring ADA compliant parking, restrooms, and entrances, along with accommodations for support animals, wheelchairs, and scooters.

Will the festival continue if it rains?

The Arts in the Park festival will continue rain or shine, so we recommend bringing a rain jacket and/or umbrella if rain is forecast during the festival.

Is the festival family-friendly?

The Arts in the Park festival is a family-friendly event. There are plenty of activities tailored just to children that foster creativity and learning. Kids 12 and under can enter for free, making it affordable for the whole family to enjoy.
 

Enjoy Attending the Arts in the Park Festival

We hope this guide has provided you with all the information you need to make the most of your visit to the 2025 Arts in the Park festival. Come stay with us at Blue Sky Cabin Rentals and enjoy a rich, cultural festival experience.

Whether you’re a first-time attendee or a seasoned festival-goer, we look forward to seeing you there and sharing in the joy and creativity that define this beloved event.