Highland City's Premier Arts Event Returns This Summer
Each summer, Highland City transforms its downtown into a vibrant open-air celebration of creativity, community, and culture. The Summer Arts Festival draws local artists, performers, food vendors, and art lovers together for a weekend that showcases everything that makes the Highland City creative scene special.
Whether you're a first-time attendee or a seasoned festival-goer, this guide will help you make the most of the experience.
What to Expect
The festival spans three days and covers multiple blocks of the downtown arts district. Here's a breakdown of what you'll find:
- Juried Art Exhibition: A curated outdoor gallery featuring paintings, sculptures, photography, and mixed media from regional artists. Works are judged by a panel and prizes are awarded on opening night.
- Live Performance Stages: Two stages run throughout the weekend — one dedicated to musical acts and one to dance, spoken word, and theatrical performances.
- Artisan Market: Local makers sell handcrafted goods, from ceramics and jewelry to textiles and prints.
- Interactive Workshops: Drop-in workshops for all ages let visitors try their hand at printmaking, watercolor, mosaic-making, and more.
- Public Mural Unveiling: Each year the festival commissions a new mural for a prominent downtown wall, revealed during the Saturday evening ceremony.
Planning Your Visit
Getting There
The festival grounds are located in and around Civic Plaza, with multiple entry points along Main Street and River Avenue. Public transit lines run extended service during festival weekend, and designated bike parking is available near all main entrances. Driving visitors are encouraged to use the Elmwood Parking Garage, a short walk from the festival center.
What to Bring
- Comfortable walking shoes — you'll cover a lot of ground
- Reusable water bottle (filling stations are available throughout)
- Cash and cards — most vendors accept both, but some smaller stalls are cash-only
- A tote bag for any art prints or market purchases
- Sunscreen and a hat for daytime hours
Family Considerations
The festival is entirely free and family-friendly. A dedicated Kids' Art Zone near the north entrance runs structured activities for children throughout the day, staffed by local art educators. Strollers are welcome, and accessible pathways connect all main areas of the festival grounds.
Supporting Local Artists
One of the best things you can do at the Summer Arts Festival is buy directly from artists. When you purchase a piece at the juried show or from a market vendor, the proceeds go straight to the creator. Many artists are happy to talk about their process — don't be shy about striking up a conversation.
If you're not in a position to buy, sharing on social media, signing up for an artist's newsletter, or simply telling them you loved their work goes a long way in supporting the local creative economy.
Volunteer Opportunities
The festival is largely run by community volunteers. Roles include gallery stewarding, stage coordination, workshop assistance, and information booth staffing. Volunteering for a few hours typically earns you access to exclusive events like the artist preview night. Check the Highland City Arts website for volunteer sign-up information closer to the festival date.
Mark Your Calendar
The Summer Arts Festival is one of those events that reminds Highland City residents why community arts matter. Plan to spend a full day — or all three — and come ready to be surprised, inspired, and connected.