MKAF Seeks Artists for 31st Festival of the Arts
Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation is now accepting artist applications for the 31st annual Festival of the Arts, set for Oct. 24–25, 2026, at the Mattie Kelly Cultural Arts Village in Destin.
One of the Southeast’s premier art festivals, the event features more than 100 artists from across the country, along with live music, Cuisine on the Green, a wine and beer garden, children’s art activities and more. This juried show includes a wide range of mediums, from painting and sculpture to photography, fiber, glass and digital art. Artists will compete for $10,000 in cash awards. A $30 nonrefundable jury fee applies, with booth fees starting at $350. “Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation is a champion for arts and culture and the Festival of the Arts helps to build that creative community. This festival attracts artists from across the country and has become a popular annual fall event with locals and visitors alike,” said Deb Nissley, director of operations for Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation.
Application deadline for artist exhibition and poster art is July 1, 2026. Learn more at mkaf.org.
Student Creativity Takes Center Stage in Poster Contest
The Okaloosa Arts Alliance invites K–12 students across the county to participate in the 17th Annual School Poster Contest. This year’s theme, “What Does Art Mean to You?”, encourages students to explore how creativity shapes their lives. Entries may be submitted through schools or individually and must be received by May 2 at 3 p.m. Drop-off locations include Grow Your Gift Conservatory of Music in Fort Walton Beach and the Okaloosa Arts Alliance office on Beal Parkway.
The community is invited to a free public reception and showcase May 3 from 1–4 p.m. at Grow Your Gift, featuring student artwork, live music, refreshments and an interactive instrument “petting zoo,” along with the announcement of contest winners and Viewer’s Choice awards.
Details: okaloosaarts.org.
Sinfonia Youth Orchestra Performs Free Spring Concerts May 3
Sinfonia Gulf Coast’s Sinfonia Youth Orchestra will present its Spring Concert on May 3 at Destin High School, with performances at 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. as part of the organization’s 20th anniversary season.
Under new director Dr. Thomas Roggio, the program blends cinematic favorites and classical masterworks, including selections from How to Train Your Dragon, Jurassic Park, a creative fusion of The Barber of Seville and Jaws, and Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5. “This program is designed to inspire both our musicians and our audience,” Roggio said. “We’re bringing together music that students love — from cinematic favorites to cornerstone classical repertoire — and challenging them to perform at a high level while connecting emotionally with the audience. It’s about storytelling through music and creating an experience that resonates.”
The free, family-friendly concert will also honor graduating seniors. “Education is the centerpiece of Sinfonia,” said Music & Artistic Director Demetrius Fuller. “The Sinfonia Youth Orchestra provides an invaluable opportunity for young musicians to grow artistically and personally. These students represent the future of music in our community, and we invite everyone to come out and support them.”
‘Jaws in Concert’ Brings Film and Live Orchestra Together May 15
Sinfonia Gulf Coast continues its 20th anniversary season with Jaws in Concert on May 15 at 7:30 p.m. at the Destin–Fort Walton Beach Convention Center.
This unique experience pairs the full-length film with a live performance of John Williams’ iconic score, performed in sync with the action on screen. “We love presenting these film-in-concert experiences because they create an entirely new way to experience movies audiences already know and love,” said Music & Artistic Director Demetrius Fuller. “Hearing this iconic score performed live alongside the film is powerful, immersive and unforgettable. It’s one of those evenings where you feel every note.”
Reflecting on the film’s famous theme, composer John Williams said, “It was fun and it seemed to have worked.”
Tickets range from $40–$69.50 and benefit Sinfonia Gulf Coast’s music education and community programs. Learn more at SinfoniaGulfCoast.org or call (850) 460-8800.
