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An Occasion for the Arts
October 3 @ 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
An Occasion for the Arts
October 3-4, 2026 | Merchants Square
This is their biggest one yet! This year’s festival brings together 5 unique zones for a weekend filled with art, music, food, creativity, and community. From 150+ professional artists on historic D.O.G. Street Main Street Artists, to local talent on The Front Porch, to family fun in Avant Garden, to exclusive experiences at the Patron’s Patio, and to the energy of The Block Party—there’s something for everyone to discover. More info
Festival Highlights
🎨 Fine Arts Show
Discover nationally juried artists presenting original work across an open-air gallery filled with craftsmanship, conversation, and inspiration. Explore a range of painting, sculpture, photography, jewelry, ceramics, and mixed media while meeting the artists behind each piece.
🎶 Live Music & Performances
Two stages feature a full weekend of entertainment—from classical ballet and Celtic ensembles to Motown folk, multicultural drumming, and bluegrass favorites.
Avant Garden,
An Occasion for the Arts and the Muscarelle Museum of Art present the Avant Garden, a youth centered space celebrating creativity. The Avant Garden features an exhibition of local K-12 student art; performances by local dance, theatre and music students; Art Labs drop in art making workshops; a chalk art competition with cash prizes; and an interactive community mural with artist Adjoa Burrowes.
Music & Performance Schedule
Experience live music and performances throughout the weekend on the Main Stage and Prince George Stage. See schedule
Plan Your Visit
📍 Location: Merchants Square, Williamsburg, VA
💲 Admission: Free and open to the public
Enjoy art, music, food, and shopping all within the historic setting of Williamsburg’s Merchants Square.
