Southampton will become a hub of creativity when the Southampton Arts Festival returns July 31 through August 2.
The event celebrates the area's artistic talent while encouraging people to explore the town's galleries, performance spaces, and public venues.
Southampton Arts Centre Board Chair Fred Koontz explained admission is free for many activities, allowing residents and tourists to experience the community's thriving arts scene.
"Theatre, live-theatre, comedy, visual arts exhibitions, outdoor markets, and free musical concerts," he added. "Some events are ticketed, the theatre for example. As well, the Museum is hosting an art exhibit by an indigenous artist Friday and Saturday, but they're throwing open their doors free to the public on the Sunday."
Many of last year's participating groups are returning with new performances and exhibits. Koontz pointed out that the festival is a collaboration of ten arts groups.
"One of the premier events is called 50 Little Masterpieces, Saturday night at the Art Gallery," Koontz continued. "And there's also a public participation event. Chalk Art for families, individuals and groups. They pay $10 and get a box of chalk and a section of sidewalk. So that's new this year."
The festival is designed to showcase local artists while celebrating Southampton's growing arts and culture scene.
Organizers are hoping to build on the success of the inaugural festival by attracting thousands of residents and visitors to the lakeside community over the Civic Holiday weekend.
For more information, go to https://www.southamptonartscentre.com/artsfestival2026?
