By SPEAKIN’ OUT NEWS
HUNTSVILLE — One of the city’s most anticipated cultural events is making its return as the Panoply Arts Festival brings three days of art, music, and family-friendly fun back to Big Spring Park April 24–26.
Presented by Mazda Toyota Manufacturing, the annual festival will feature more than 115 visual artists and a packed schedule of activities celebrating Huntsville’s continued creative growth.
The juried Art Marketplace, a cornerstone of the festival, will showcase artists from 22 states, including 33 first-time exhibitors. Visitors can explore a wide variety of artwork, from paintings and sculptures to ceramics and handcrafted jewelry.
“Panoply continues to reflect Huntsville’s artistic energy and its evolving identity,” said Arts Huntsville Executive Director Allison Dillon-Jauken.
The festival kicks off Friday at 5 p.m. and runs through Sunday evening, offering food vendors, craft beer and wine, hands-on art activities, and STEAM-focused installations throughout the park.
Live entertainment will also take center stage, with 17 bands performing throughout the weekend. Friday night’s headliner is Jazz McKenzie, followed by The Otis Walker Band on Saturday and a tribute honoring local music legend Microwave Dave. Sunday will feature Southern rock group Double Barrel.
Organizers also announced Vanessa Miller as the 2026 Panoply poster artist. Her piece, Panoply Fireworks, captures the energy of the festival’s return following the pandemic.
“We are thrilled to celebrate her work as our 2026 poster artist,” Dillon-Jauken said.
The festival will also include student art displays, face painting, and community mural projects. Fireworks will close out Friday and Saturday nights.
Admission is $15 per day or $20 for the weekend, with children 12 and under admitted free.