The San Marco Arts Festival brings the community together with local talent in its 26th year.

SAN MARCO, FL. – San Marco’s long tradition of celebrating the arts after Thanksgiving continued with the 26th annual Balis Park Arts Festival. The vibrant community event spotlights local artists and their diverse talents while supporting businesses and strengthening connections.

John Woods, a festival attendee, expressed admiration for one artist’s work, saying: “This is one of the most beautiful prints I have come across in the last year or two. The work of this publication exceeds all expectations.” He proudly displayed a painting of a distillery he had bought for his son, demonstrating the lasting influence of the artists’ work.

CONNECTED: The park bench is named after the late co-owner of Beatty and Beau in San Marco.

Organizer Rula Carr emphasized the importance of the festival, describing it as a place where “people can find amazing art, local art and just be a part of what we have here. This is a community event.”

Carr, who also owns The Vault at the 1940 Art Gallery, curates the work of more than 50 artists and brings the same passion for promoting creativity to this annual gathering.

The festival featured an eclectic array of art, including paintings, photographs, sculptures and culinary creations. Artists ranged from seasoned professionals to newcomers such as Mark Durham, who presented many unique pieces.

“I have prints of people, celebrities and things like that. The main thing I have here is dog art, custom portraits and my unique sculptures,” Durham shared.

John Woods praised the event’s ability to highlight local talent, saying: “We have fantastic artists across the region. Events like this spread the word that we have an arts community.”

Carr echoed that sentiment, adding, “It gives people an idea and comfort to know that once a year they come to San Marco at Balis Park and contribute to the community.”

The San Marco Arts Festival offers more than just a showcase of talent. serves as a reminder of the value of shopping local and support from neighbors, friends and family.

As it continues Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., participants have another chance to explore and celebrate the rich craftsmanship that characterizes the Jacksonville area.