Following a record-breaking 25th year, LeMoyne Arts is proud to announce the 26th Annual Chain of Parks Art Festival, taking place Saturday and Sunday, April 18-19, 2026. Recently ranked the #3 Fine Art Festival in the Nation (including #1 in Florida) by Sunshine Artist Magazine, this beloved Tallahassee tradition transforms the downtown “Chain of Parks” into a premier outdoor gallery under the city’s majestic live oaks. The Festival welcomes an average of 42,000 attendees over the weekend and generates an estimated $2.37 million in economic impact from tourism for Tallahassee’s local economy.
“The Chain of Parks Art Festival has become a treasured tradition for Tallahassee,” said former Chair, long-time Festival Steering Committee Member, Kelly Dozier. “Its continued growth and national recognition are a testament to our community’s passion for art and culture.”
2026 Cover Artwork & Artist Announced: “Heart of the Universe” by Curtis Whitwam:
This year’s Festival features the work of watercolorist Curtis Whitwam. Born and raised in the uplands of Tampa Bay, Curtis Whitwam merges his formal education in earth science and art with a deep-seated connection to Florida’s wild ecosystems. Whitwam’s signature “liquid light” style captures the sacred rhythm of Florida’s wildlife and has created a special piece to reflect Tallahassee’s signature cypress trees, rivers, and springs. Whitwam’s work has earned prestigious accolades from both the American and Florida Watercolor Societies.
About the Festival:
The festivities begin early with the “Garden Guardians” upcycled sculpture exhibit in LeMoyne’s expanded new gardens from March 17 through April 17. The exhibit will then be transferred to the Festival for a special exhibit conclusion and silent auction. To kick off the long Festival weekend, a special ticketed event and presentation will feature nationally recognized painter Noah Verrier on Thursday, April 16, in partnership with FSU’s Opening Nights.
Set under the majestic live oak trees of downtown Tallahassee’s Bloxham, Lewis, and Randolph “Chain of Parks,” this beloved, free, two-day event transforms the parks into a vibrant tapestry of creativity, community, and culture. Slated for April 18-19, the Festival will welcome thousands of visitors to view and purchase unique works of fine art from over 160 national juried artists, while enjoying a weekend filled with live 3-D street art, folk and heritage art, live local entertainment, musical processions, children’s art activities, local cultural re-enactments, community connections, delicious local food, craft beer, and more.
The weekend’s programming offers an immersive experience that extends beyond fine art to showcase various exciting art forms. On Saturday, April 18, at 2:30 p.m., visitors can witness a whimsical theatrical procession of larger-than-life puppets and masks envisioned by renowned local artist Linda Hall, accompanied by musicians and community artists. This performative parade will wind through the parks, concluding with an interactive play in the Children’s Park. On Sunday, April 19, the energy continues at 2:30 p.m. with a celebratory performance by the Rickards High School Marching Raider Band, showcasing the immense talent of local Leon County students.
Families and art lovers will find a variety of dedicated zones to explore throughout the weekend. The Children’s Park, hosted by The Apalachee Center in partnership with Leon County Schools, offers free interactive art studios, educational tents focused on Tallahassee’s local heritage, and live historical reenactments.
Meanwhile, the Chalk Art Oasis features a decorated space filled with interactive activities and four professional street artists creating 3-D anamorphic art on the pavement, underwritten by Visit Tallahassee and generously hosted by Ron Sachs and Gay Webster Sachs. The Festival also highlights community organizations and local sustainability efforts at the Community Corner. For those looking for a culinary experience, the event features a wide array of local food vendors alongside adult libations by PROOF Brewing at the McKibbon Hospitality Bar.
For more information about the Chain of Parks Art Festival’s programming, participation, sponsorship, or volunteer opportunities, please visit www.ChainofParks.com and follow @ChainofParks on Facebook and Instagram.
