Virtu Art Festival 2026 - 30th Annual

Virtu Art Festival is the 30th annual outdoor arts festival presented by the Ocean Community Chamber of Commerce. The event takes place at Wilcox Park in Westerly, Rhode Island on Saturday, May 23, 2026 from 10 am–5 pm and Sunday, May 24, 2026 from 10 am–4 pm. The festival features an exhibition of quality arts representing diverse talents, with live entertainment and works by artists from around the country. Annual attendance tops 20,000 visitors.

The application deadline for the first round is February 28, 2026, with first round jurying and notifications occurring March 2–6, 2026. Applications will continue to be reviewed and juried on a weekly basis until May 13, 2026 or the show is filled. Categories fill on an individual medium basis, with jewelry, pottery, and wood typically closing first. The application fee is $0.00. Applicants must submit 5 images, including a required booth shot. Emerging artists are welcome to apply.

The festival goals include assembling an exhibition of quality arts with diverse representation, supporting artists by providing venue exposure, promoting knowledge of artistically diverse expression, and offering hands-on arts participation for children. Volunteers assist with unloading and setup. Free coffee and pastries are available on both mornings. Private security patrols overnight Friday and Saturday evenings; the Westerly Police Department will have a presence during the event. Artists are advised to remove artwork from the park beginning at 5:00 p.m. on Saturday due to security and weather concerns. NO stakes are permitted; artists must use weights. Vehicles are limited to 7 feet 8 inches in width and 6.5 tons net weight for park access.