51st Mount Dora Arts Festival returns Jan 31
The Floridant/10327545

MOUNT DORA, Fla. - Floridant -- For the 51st year, the charming streets of downtown Mount Dora will close to traffic as fine artists from across the country transform the city into an open-air art gallery during the Mount Dora Arts Festival, taking place Saturday, January 31 and Sunday, February 1, 2026,

This highly anticipated, nationally recognized event will feature 300 artists exhibiting original works and competing for $20,000 in cash awards, including 2D, 3D, and Best in Show. The festival includes two distinct sections: a Juried Fine Arts area, eligible for awards, and a curated Emerging Artist/Craft Artisan section located near the food court.

Janet Gamache, Executive Director of Mount Dora Center for the Arts and festival coordinator, expressed her excitement about the event. "Each year I'm inspired by the caliber of work the artists bring. The jury process is rigorous and highly competitive, resulting in an exceptional showcase of talent."

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Festivalgoers can expect a wide range of artistic media including painting, photography, clay, glass, mixed media, sculpture, wood, fiber art, and jewelry.
In addition to the visual arts, attendees can enjoy festival food, beer, wine, and cocktails available at kiosks' Local restaurants remain open for sit-down dining. Live performances will take place in Donnelly Park throughout the weekend.

While most artists accept credit cards, visitors are encouraged to bring cash. "WiFi can be unreliable during the event, which may affect mobile payment apps," Gamache noted.

To avoid downtown traffic, attendees are encouraged to use the free round-trip shuttle located at Mount Dora Christian Academy 301 W. 13th Ave, Mount Dora. Parking is available for a small fee, collected by students to support their programming. City parking information is also available on their website at Downtown Parking Information | Mount Dora, FL - Official Website

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Pets are permitted but discouraged due to large crowds. For everyone's comfort, attendees are asked to leave pets at home when possible.

The 51st Annual Mount Dora Arts Festival is presented by G3 Development and Mount Dora Center for the Arts, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Proceeds from the festival directly support MDCA's year-round arts programming.

The festival runs Saturday, January 31, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Sunday, February 1, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Admission is free.

For more information, visit www.MountDoraArt.org or call 352-385-7004.