As spring settles into Southern Utah and the desert blooms with warmth and color, the city of St. George prepares to welcome one of its most time-honored and beloved traditions.
Now in its 46th year, the St. George Art Festival returns to Historic Town Square on April 18 and 19, transforming the city’s heart into a lively and colorful celebration of creativity, culture, and community. What began in 1980 as a humble showcase for local talent has blossomed into a nationally juried festival featuring nearly 200 artists from across the United States, drawing in more than 30,000 visitors annually.
With the dramatic red rock cliffs standing sentry around the city and flowering trees lining the streets, the setting alone feels like a work of art. Against this breathtaking backdrop, the festival invites guests to stroll through rows of artist booths filled with original works across every medium imaginable.
Paintings, sculptures, ceramics, photography, textiles, jewelry, glasswork, and mixed media pieces offer a spectrum of styles, from traditional landscapes and portraits to abstract expressions and contemporary concepts.
Whether you’re a serious collector, a casual art enthusiast, or simply looking for inspiration, the variety and quality of work on display ensures something to connect with and remember.
But the St. George Art Festival is more than just a gallery under the sky—it’s an immersive, multi-sensory experience that engages visitors of all ages. Throughout the weekend, three stages of live entertainment bring the square to life with a rotating lineup of musicians, dancers, and performers.
Local bands, youth dance troupes, jazz ensembles, acoustic acts, and cultural performers keep the rhythm going and create a soundtrack for the weekend that is as diverse as the artwork itself.
Food lovers can look forward to a wide-ranging culinary adventure. Dozens of food trucks and booths will line the streets, serving everything from barbecue and wood-fired pizza to Thai noodles, Mediterranean dishes, gourmet hot dogs, crepes, and freshly baked desserts.
The smell of sizzling food fills the air, inviting visitors to pause, gather, and enjoy a meal together. Shaded picnic tables, soft grassy areas, and park benches are perfect for relaxing between booth visits and performances.
Families with children will find plenty to explore at the Creation Station, a dedicated area where young artists can engage with hands-on projects, interactive displays, and creative challenges. From painting and sculpting to collaborative murals and make-and-take crafts, the space is designed to spark imagination and allow kids to express themselves while being part of the artistic energy.
This year’s featured artist, Liza Compass, brings a vibrant, multidimensional approach to her work. Fusing music, performance, and visual art, her pieces invite viewers to engage on multiple levels and reflect the festival’s broader theme of exploration, connection, and expression. Her presence adds an exciting dynamic to this year’s lineup and provides a fresh lens through which to view the intersection of different artistic disciplines.
The festival weekend offers special events alongside art and entertainment. The Art Attack 5K and 1-mile races combine community fitness with creativity, with winners receiving original artwork from the Southern Utah Art Guild. The Desertscape Film Festival at the historic Electric Theater runs from April 16 through 19, showcasing independent cinema to enrich the overall experience.
Evenings feature free outdoor concerts on Tabernacle Street, where locals and visitors can enjoy music under the stars. Friday night will have Yachty By Nature playing yacht rock classics, while Saturday showcases indie rock band The Greeting Committee.
For longtime residents, the festival marks the arrival of spring, while newcomers can experience St. George’s strong sense of community and appreciation for the arts.
With free admission and family-friendly programming, the St. George Art Festival is an experience that leaves a lasting impression.
Whether you come for the art, the music, the food, the family fun, or to enjoy the atmosphere, the St. George Art Festival invites you to celebrate the season and connect with the creative spirit that brings people together. It’s a weekend to explore, to be inspired, and to be part of something truly special.
Join us in Town Square
April 18-19, 2025
50 South Main, St. George UT, 84770
Festival Hours
fri 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
sat 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
