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Gulf & Main Magazine

ArtFest Fort Myers Returns in February

Jan 01, 2016 11:42AM ● By Kevin
One of the country’s best outdoor art shows returns to downtown Fort Myers in early February. Clear some calendar time for the 16th anniversary ArtFest Fort Myers, a juried exhibit featuring fine art from world and US artists. The event is Feb. 6-7, with an opening night party on Friday, Feb. 5.

Long considered the premier Southwest Florida art festival for its exceptional level of quality and variety, this community-based event has been ranked as one of the best Southern art fairs by ArtFairCalendar.com. Stroll the downtown riverfront looking at artwork, eating delicious food, listening to live music and even creating your own piece of art. “It’s going to be a wonderful celebration,” says Sharon McAllister, the event’s executive director.

Aside from great art, the event features the Sunday morning Publix Run to the Arts, a 5K race that begins and ends in the heart of ArtFest Fort Myers. Details for that event are at RunToTheArts.com

Fabulous artwork at ArtFest Fort MyersThe artists with ArtFest Fort Myers represent the best of the best, and are carefully juried and accepted to exhibit based on their incredible talent. More than 900 artists apply for acceptance. The event will attract some 90,000 visitors viewing (and purchasing) jewelry, sculpture, unique paintings and decorative ceramics. Price ranges vary, so every patron can find something extra special that fits taste and budget.

ArtFest Fort Myers is a family event and is free to attend. Take time to enjoy talented Southwest Florida high school artists at the Art Under 20 exhibit. The Publix Art Yard and Youth Stage are full of opportunities for children of all ages to create a masterpiece of their very own, while enjoying a variety of great performances. And there are plenty of dining opportunities. Details are at artfestfortmyers.com.