The Charles City Art-a-Fest is a juried arts festival where up to 50 local and regional artists can display and sell their artwork. This festival fulfills an important role in the community and surrounding areas by supporting and celebrating local and regional artists. Our goal is to make the arts accessible to all members of our community during this one-day, free event. Cash prizes are awarded to artists whose work is judged superior, and Art-a-fest bucks are awarded to lucky shoppers to purchase artwork- this means more sales! With interactive arts activities for children, live performing artists, and delicious food from a variety of local and regional vendors, there is something for everyone to enjoy, and the event draws a large crowd every year.

The 52nd annual Art-a-Fest will be held Saturday, August 16 from 10 AM – 4 PM in Central Park, Charles City, IA. There will be a dedicated “Artists’ Hour” from 9 AM-10AM when participating artists can mingle and shop from each other, before the festival opens for the general public. Note- event sponsors / donors will also be invited to shop early during that time, in thanks for their contribution toward making Art-a-Fest possible.

Deadline to apply: May 31, 2025

Application fee: $60 (includes reservation of a 10’x10’ booth space; fee is refunded to anyone not accepted by jury)

Jury date: June 1-14, 2025

Notification of acceptance: by June 15, 2025