59th Annual Ocala Arts Festival Returns to Downtown October 24-25, 2026

The 59th Annual Ocala Arts Festival, presented by Fine Arts For Ocala, returns to downtown Ocala on October 24 and 25, 2026. The two-day outdoor festival transforms the historic downtown square into a juried outdoor gallery, drawing more than 30,000 visitors annually.

Festival Dates and Location

The festival runs Saturday and Sunday, October 24 and 25, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM each day. Artists and vendors set up along the downtown Ocala streets surrounding the historic square. Admission is free and the event is family-friendly.

More Than 155 Juried Artists

According to festival organizers, the 2026 edition features more than 155 artists selected through a competitive juried process. Accepted art categories span a wide range of mediums, including painting, photography, ceramics, glass, jewelry, metal, fiber, printmaking, watercolor, wood, digital art, and mixed media in both 2D and 3D formats.

Artists travel to Ocala from across the country for the festival, which has become a signature stop on the Florida outdoor arts festival circuit. Fine Arts For Ocala supports participating artists with complimentary breakfast, snacks and beverages throughout the weekend, a Saturday artist dinner, convenient Friday setup logistics, artist parking, on-site security, and booth sitters.

Six Decades of Community Impact

The Ocala Arts Festival is one of the longest-running arts festivals in Central Florida. Proceeds from the festival support Fine Arts For Ocala's year-round arts programming, including scholarships for Marion County students pursuing arts education.

What Attendees Can Expect

In addition to the juried artist booths, the festival traditionally features live music, food vendors, children's activity areas, and demonstrations. The downtown location puts attendees within walking distance of Ocala's restaurant district, making it easy to combine the festival with a meal at nearby establishments. For more on the downtown scene, see our guide to Ocala restaurants and things to do during the festival weekend.

Parking and Logistics

Visitors should plan for busier-than-usual downtown traffic over festival weekend. Free parking is generally available in city lots and garages surrounding the downtown square, though early arrival is recommended on Saturday. Strollers are welcome, and the festival footprint is ADA-accessible along paved sidewalks.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the 2026 Ocala Arts Festival?

The 59th Annual Ocala Arts Festival takes place Saturday and Sunday, October 24 and 25, 2026.

Where is the festival held?

The festival is held in downtown Ocala, centered on the historic downtown square and surrounding streets.

Is the Ocala Arts Festival free?

Yes. Admission to the festival is free for all attendees. Artwork is available for purchase from participating artists.

What are the festival hours?

The festival runs from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM on both Saturday and Sunday.

How many artists participate?

The 2026 festival features more than 155 juried artists from across the country.

Is the festival family-friendly?

Yes. The festival welcomes all ages and traditionally includes children's art activities and live music.

Where can I learn more?

Visit fafo.org/festival for the full artist lineup, parking information, and festival map.