RiverArtsFest 2025

RiverArtsFest, now in its 19th year, presents a rich cultural festival of fine art, music and food for the Mid-South public's entertainment, education and enjoyment. It is the longest running fine arts festival in the region. An urban street festival, RiverArtsFest is held in downtown Memphis on the banks of the Mississippi River, and attracts patrons from Tennessee, Arkansas, Kentucky and Mississippi. RiverArtsFest is honored to be ranked #19 in Sunshine Artist magazine's "200 Best for 2024".

The festival takes place October 17-19, 2025, with artist market hours Saturday and Sunday from 10 AM to 5 PM. RiverArtsFest selects artists to participate through a blind jury process comprised of museum curators, arts educators and professional artists. The application fee is $35 (non-refundable) with an application deadline of May 31, 2025. Artists may apply in categories including ceramics, digital art, drawing, fiber & leather, glass, graphics and printmaking, jewelry, metal works, mixed media, painting, photography, sculpture, and wood. An Emerging Artist program is available for artists in their first 10 years of professional work who are residents of Shelby County, Tennessee or adjoining counties.

Awards include a $12,000 Best of Show award and $750 Best of Category awards, determined by an on-site jury. Gate fees are $10 for adults and $5 for youth 6-12 years of age, with children 5 and under free. RiverArtsFest provides artist hospitality including snacks, light meals and beverages throughout the festival hours, and Artist Ambassadors are available to offer assistance to exhibiting artists.