As the holiday season approaches, many art festivals and other holiday festivals are happening in our community. These festivals are an amazing place to go with your family or your friends. It is a great way to relax and get your mind off any stressful situations while viewing some of the many talented pieces created by local artists in our community. There are many unique pieces placed on display that you can purchase or just admire. It means a lot to these artists, even if you are just there to view their hard work,  or can purchase a piece of their artwork. Some of the many festivals that are upcoming in the Orlando area right now are the Maitland Rotary Art Festival, Festival of trees, Orlando Pottery Festival and Holiday Arts Market, and the Van Gogh exhibit at the Snap! Orlando Museum.

The Maitland Rotary Art Festival is scheduled to begin on November 12th and run through November 14th at the Lake Lily Park in Maitland from 5 pm to 9 pm. This festival is made possible by many public and private partnerships. This art festival is a non-profit that raises money for the charitable activities of the Rotary Club of Maitland. The Rotary Club of Maitland is a volunteer service that tackles the world’s most pressing humanitarian challenges. They work at both the local and state level from helping families in their community to working towards a better world. This festival will include live entertainment, student art exhibits, professional art exhibits, and much more. This festival offers a display of artwork ranging from fine crafts, glassworks, graphics and drawing, jewelry, painting, photography, pottery, sculptures, and much more. Make sure to check out their 45th annual “Art Under The Stars” show this Saturday, November 12th to the 14th. 

Seminole High School Junior Fiona Luzano says “I plan to attend the Maitland Art Festival to view all of the unique pieces of art displayed, and to support the local artists in my community that does not get enough recognition.”

Another upcoming annual festival is the Festival of Trees to kick off the Christmas season. This is a very popular festival that is offered around Christmas time in Orlando. This festival begins on November 13th and ends on November 21st. The Festival of Trees showcases magical displays of fabulously decorated Christmas trees, wreaths, and gingerbread creations. The festival also provides live entertainment and activities for the kids such as breakfast with Santa or the Toyland Town activity. They bring glitz and glam to the Christmas season and have a jaw-dropping display of over 100 trees. When you purchase your ticket to the festival, all proceeds go to benefit the Orlando Museum of Art to continue these annual festivals.

Seminole High School student Fatima Hussain states “I look forward to attending this festival with my family each year, it is a great way to bond and you can enjoy the holiday season by immersing yourself in all of the different trees and activities present. This is a festival you should attend one holiday season.”

Another worthy festival is the Orlando Pottery Festival and Holiday Arts Market occurring on December 11th. This is Central Florida’s largest winter celebration and market of ceramic art displaying unique handmade pottery items. This festival brings together 35 talented local artists whose distinctive designs are becoming contemporary collectibles. This event features young and emerging ceramic artists who are selling things such as ceramic jewelry, ceramic pots, and sculptures. This is a free family-friendly event worth checking out for the holiday season and to support our local ceramic artists.

Lastly, the Van Gogh exhibit at the Snap! The Orlando Museum is a sight to see. This event begins on November 26th and features a 25,000 square foot exhibit where the art of Vincent Van Gogh will come to life around you. Visitors are saying this exhibit is a completely new way of encountering art taking the world by storm. You will be immersed in his artwork from his sunny landscapes to his portraits and still life paintings. This event is perfect for the whole family and should not be missed. If you plan on attending, purchase your tickets now as they are selling fast.

Events during Christmas are an amazing time to bond with your family or simply enjoy the festive time. Visit places of rich culture and beautiful displays. Enjoy your season of joy!