Fairs/Festivals
Palo Alto Festival of the Arts 2026
Contact Information
Requirement Overview
- Eligible Applicant Types: Artist
- Emerging Artists: Emerging artists may apply.
- Submission Limit: 1
Media Requirements
- Images | Min: 7, Max: 7
- Total | Max: 7
Opportunity Summary
August 22 & 23, 2026
University Avenue, Palo Alto, CA University Avenue between High and Webster Streets
Well-known for showcasing high quality art, Palo Alto’s Festival of the Arts celebrates its 43rd anniversary. Over sixty-thousand patrons who appreciate the festival’s excellence visit this open-air gallery each year. Art lovers stroll along tree-lined University Avenue, browsing fine arts and fine crafts booths, interacting with the artists and shopping the stunning selections from over 250 talented, creative minds.
This beautiful venue delights all senses with the festival’s diverse elements including sidewalk piano virtuosos, Italian Street Painting, delicious food selections and alcoholic beverage varieties. The community-friendly event is hosted by the Palo Alto Chamber of Commerce with the support of the City of Palo alto and is a major fundraiser for the Chamber as well as several local non-profit organizations.
Event Hours: 10:00am - 6:00pm
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General Information
APPLY ONLINE
1) www.zapplication.org Non-refundable application fee through ZAPP $25.00.
2) www.pacificfinearts.com Non-refundable application fee through our website's downloaded / fillable application $15.00.
PLEASE—only one application per person or collaborative partnership (2 artists who work together on each piece).
Media Categories for Consideration
Ceramics
Fiber: wearable, decorative & functional
Glass
Graphics: digital & hand-drawn
Jewelry
Leather
Metalwork
Mixed Media
Painting
Photography
Printmaking
Sculpture
Wood
Categories Not Suitable for Consideration
Examples of categories not suitable for this show are: imported and mass-produced products, items made from kits, "buy and sell", hand-embellished mass-produced items, work not created and produced by the applicant(s), packaged specialty foods, books, permanent jewelry, CDs, personal care items, children's products, body art, living plants. Items involving weapons, nudity, or sensitive wording may be declined.
Advertising & Publicity
Each year the dollars budgeted for paid-advertising & publicity and the amount of in-kind media support received will vary, but the overall estimated value usually exceeds $300,000. The 2025 advertising & PR budget will include but is not limited to: ads & calendar listings in major print & on-line publications, festival-specific postcard mailers/handouts, city-wide poster & postcard distribution, a four-color glossy festival guide, reciprocal web site linkage, e-mail blast copy & graphics for your use, and regular social media postings.
COMMISSION EVENT A 10% commission on gross, pre-tax sales is required for all work sold as a direct result of this opportunity for public exposure, including sales completed after the fair or festival. Commissions should be postmarked to our office (PO Box 280, Pine Grove, CA 95665) by the Wednesday following the event, and for any subsequent sales, as soon as possible. We also accept payments via PayPal, Venmo, and Zelle. Detailed instructions are provided in the event instruction letters.
REFERRAL PROGRAM Refer an artisan and when both of you participate in any event within the same year, each receives a $50 space-fee credit. Download the certificate at pacificfinearts.com or request one at pfa@pacificfinearts.com / 209-267-4394 and include it with your applications.
1) www.zapplication.org Non-refundable application fee through ZAPP $25.00.
2) www.pacificfinearts.com Non-refundable application fee through our website's downloaded / fillable application $15.00.
PLEASE—only one application per person or collaborative partnership (2 artists who work together on each piece).
Media Categories for Consideration
Ceramics
Fiber: wearable, decorative & functional
Glass
Graphics: digital & hand-drawn
Jewelry
Leather
Metalwork
Mixed Media
Painting
Photography
Printmaking
Sculpture
Wood
Categories Not Suitable for Consideration
Examples of categories not suitable for this show are: imported and mass-produced products, items made from kits, "buy and sell", hand-embellished mass-produced items, work not created and produced by the applicant(s), packaged specialty foods, books, permanent jewelry, CDs, personal care items, children's products, body art, living plants. Items involving weapons, nudity, or sensitive wording may be declined.
Advertising & Publicity
Each year the dollars budgeted for paid-advertising & publicity and the amount of in-kind media support received will vary, but the overall estimated value usually exceeds $300,000. The 2025 advertising & PR budget will include but is not limited to: ads & calendar listings in major print & on-line publications, festival-specific postcard mailers/handouts, city-wide poster & postcard distribution, a four-color glossy festival guide, reciprocal web site linkage, e-mail blast copy & graphics for your use, and regular social media postings.
COMMISSION EVENT A 10% commission on gross, pre-tax sales is required for all work sold as a direct result of this opportunity for public exposure, including sales completed after the fair or festival. Commissions should be postmarked to our office (PO Box 280, Pine Grove, CA 95665) by the Wednesday following the event, and for any subsequent sales, as soon as possible. We also accept payments via PayPal, Venmo, and Zelle. Detailed instructions are provided in the event instruction letters.
REFERRAL PROGRAM Refer an artisan and when both of you participate in any event within the same year, each receives a $50 space-fee credit. Download the certificate at pacificfinearts.com or request one at pfa@pacificfinearts.com / 209-267-4394 and include it with your applications.
Application Requirements
Application and participation constitute agreement to/acceptance of these policies and instructions governing each Pacific Fine Arts Festivals’ event.
INSURANCE Insurance is not required to participate in our events, but we strongly suggest obtaining business or event insurance to protect your business and work. Visit https://pacificfinearts.com/insurance/ for a few resource options.
APPLICATION PHOTOS/EVENT VIDEO & PHOTOGRAPHY Event applicants/participants agree to allow the images included with their application or video/photographs taken at event/s to be used for publicity and advertising.
CANCELLATION OF FAIR OR FESTIVAL If weather, major disaster, pandemic, or other circumstances beyond the control of the Host of the Event, the City in which the event is held or Pacific Fine Arts Festivals cause the cancellation of the fair or festival, participation fees will not be returned. The Host of the Event, the City or Pacific Fine Arts Festivals cannot be held liable by exhibitors for the failure of the event to take place.
WEATHER Be at the fair or festival no matter what weather is predicted. In case of rain, follow directions given by on-site PFAF staff. Arrive at the event prepared with heavy, see-through plastic and clamps to cover your work in case of rain, and at set-up always install at least 40 pounds of weight on each tent leg and display piece or, in the case of sidewalk events, throughout your display in case of wind (heavily weight all umbrellas, too).
PRODUCTS FOR SALE Pacific Fine Arts Festivals and/or designated agents reserve the right to restrict/remove products offered for sale based on quality and integrity as decided by Pacific Fine Arts Festivals. Products not included in application are not appropriate to include for sale and will be required to be removed from booth without prior-to-event approval by Pacific Fine Arts Festivals.
THEFT Although rare, theft does sometimes occur. Pacific Fine Arts Festivals, the Host of the Event, or the City in which the event is held cannot be held liable by exhibitors for any theft that may occur at the event.
EVENT MARKETING Your marketing for each event is an essential part of our teamwork in promoting the events. We offer free color postcards for you to distribute (on your application request the amount you’d like for each event) in addition to providing downloadable event graphics for your social media or email blasts to directly target YOUR customers. Additionally, for each event we create posts on Facebook and Instagram that are easily customizable and shareable. Take advantage of these or if you create your own content promoting an event. tag us too, #PacificFineArts and @PacificFineArts. LIKE and FOLLOW us to get the latest news!
CONDUCT/DISPLAY APPEARANCE Arrive on time, promptly remove vehicle to the designated parking areas as stated in event’s Instruction Letter, booth open and ready each morning by stated time, never break down or retrieve vehicles for loading before the stated time and complete all show days scheduled. No non-service pets allowed. No children under 7, music that interferes with neighbors, open flames or generators, alcohol, drugs, or smoking allowed in or around booth. Clothing should be tasteful. Your display area should be neat, free of storage boxes or clutter, with tablecloths floor length on all sides. No displaying of “SALE” or “DISCOUNTED” type signage. Offensive/abusive behavior is not tolerated. An ignored request by staff to refrain may result in expulsion from the event. This is a professional environment—please strive to always reflect that in booth appearance and personal behavior.
ATTITUDE Our goal is to run a show that is fun as well as profitable for us all. As important as the search for art talent is we do not lose sight of the need for artists who are cooperative and easy for us and other participants to work with. No amount of talent or ability to sell will compensate for this. Aggressive behavior won’t be tolerated: harassing/abusive/threatening language, physical assault, failure to respond to staff instructions will be addressed and may result in participant’s immediate removal from the event.
INSURANCE Insurance is not required to participate in our events, but we strongly suggest obtaining business or event insurance to protect your business and work. Visit https://pacificfinearts.com/insurance/ for a few resource options.
APPLICATION PHOTOS/EVENT VIDEO & PHOTOGRAPHY Event applicants/participants agree to allow the images included with their application or video/photographs taken at event/s to be used for publicity and advertising.
CANCELLATION OF FAIR OR FESTIVAL If weather, major disaster, pandemic, or other circumstances beyond the control of the Host of the Event, the City in which the event is held or Pacific Fine Arts Festivals cause the cancellation of the fair or festival, participation fees will not be returned. The Host of the Event, the City or Pacific Fine Arts Festivals cannot be held liable by exhibitors for the failure of the event to take place.
WEATHER Be at the fair or festival no matter what weather is predicted. In case of rain, follow directions given by on-site PFAF staff. Arrive at the event prepared with heavy, see-through plastic and clamps to cover your work in case of rain, and at set-up always install at least 40 pounds of weight on each tent leg and display piece or, in the case of sidewalk events, throughout your display in case of wind (heavily weight all umbrellas, too).
PRODUCTS FOR SALE Pacific Fine Arts Festivals and/or designated agents reserve the right to restrict/remove products offered for sale based on quality and integrity as decided by Pacific Fine Arts Festivals. Products not included in application are not appropriate to include for sale and will be required to be removed from booth without prior-to-event approval by Pacific Fine Arts Festivals.
THEFT Although rare, theft does sometimes occur. Pacific Fine Arts Festivals, the Host of the Event, or the City in which the event is held cannot be held liable by exhibitors for any theft that may occur at the event.
EVENT MARKETING Your marketing for each event is an essential part of our teamwork in promoting the events. We offer free color postcards for you to distribute (on your application request the amount you’d like for each event) in addition to providing downloadable event graphics for your social media or email blasts to directly target YOUR customers. Additionally, for each event we create posts on Facebook and Instagram that are easily customizable and shareable. Take advantage of these or if you create your own content promoting an event. tag us too, #PacificFineArts and @PacificFineArts. LIKE and FOLLOW us to get the latest news!
CONDUCT/DISPLAY APPEARANCE Arrive on time, promptly remove vehicle to the designated parking areas as stated in event’s Instruction Letter, booth open and ready each morning by stated time, never break down or retrieve vehicles for loading before the stated time and complete all show days scheduled. No non-service pets allowed. No children under 7, music that interferes with neighbors, open flames or generators, alcohol, drugs, or smoking allowed in or around booth. Clothing should be tasteful. Your display area should be neat, free of storage boxes or clutter, with tablecloths floor length on all sides. No displaying of “SALE” or “DISCOUNTED” type signage. Offensive/abusive behavior is not tolerated. An ignored request by staff to refrain may result in expulsion from the event. This is a professional environment—please strive to always reflect that in booth appearance and personal behavior.
ATTITUDE Our goal is to run a show that is fun as well as profitable for us all. As important as the search for art talent is we do not lose sight of the need for artists who are cooperative and easy for us and other participants to work with. No amount of talent or ability to sell will compensate for this. Aggressive behavior won’t be tolerated: harassing/abusive/threatening language, physical assault, failure to respond to staff instructions will be addressed and may result in participant’s immediate removal from the event.
Jury Details
Average number of applications submitted each year
500
Average number of artists selected from the jury to participate in the event
210
Booth Information
Spaces are on asphalt down the middle of the street.
8dx10w (northwest exposure, wide walkway in front of space).
10dx10w space (southeast exposure, narrow walkway in front of space).
Up to 250 spaces.
Space sizes and fees 3% fee added to space fee credit card charges
Standard spaces
8dx10w / $295.00 + 10% Commission
10dx10w / $345.00 + 10% Commission
8dx20w / $590.00 + 10% Commission
10dx20w / $690.00 + 10% Commission
WalkThru spaces (open front & back)
10dx10w / $420.00 + 10% Commission
18dx10w / $715.00 + 10% Commission
10dx20w / $850.00 + 10% Commission
Corner spaces
8dx10w / $370.00 + 10% Commission
10dx10w / $420.00 + 10% Commission
8dx20w / $690.00 + 10% Commission
10dx20w / $790.00 + 10% Commission
Double corner spaces
10dx18w +2Corners / $885.00 + 10% Commission
Commission
Payment of a 10% commission from on-site sales only will be due to Pacific Fine Arts Festivals within two weeks following the festival. Commissions from post-show sales will be due by Dec. 31.
Artist Information
•Only one artist or a collaborative partnership will be assigned to one space. It is possible, though, for two artists (each must apply separately) to request side-by-side spaces.
•Applicants whose work has been accepted must be on-site the full weekend of the show.
•Participating artists are expected to be totally self-supporting by providing a canopy (optional) and all furniture, supplies and materials needed to present an attractive and safe display.
•Artist spaces are lined up back-to-back along nine blocks of University Avenue.
•Booth displays may stay up overnight. Light overnight security is provided.
•Canopies are not required, but if used, white is preferred over a bright color.
•Power is not available and generators are not allowed in the artist display areas.
•Quiet battery-operated units are fine & are to be provided by the participating artist.
•Free parking is within two blocks from the site.
•Designated RV & trailer overnight parking will be available.
•Due to City restrictions, set-up can only take place Saturday morning.
•Controlled load-in and load-out is provided with easy access to space location.
•Temperature during August is usually in the mid-80s.
Refund Policy
Cancellation Policy
April 13 - July 12 PFAF Credit Slip minus $50.00 per cancelled space
July 13 - Show Space fee is forfeited
Pacific Fine Arts Festivals' credit slip may be used towards any future space fee.
April 13 - July 12 PFAF Credit Slip minus $50.00 per cancelled space
July 13 - Show Space fee is forfeited
Pacific Fine Arts Festivals' credit slip may be used towards any future space fee.
Additional Fees
R. 10dx18w +2Corners fee (paid by credit card/PayPal): $911.55
Q. 10dx18w +2Corners fee (paid by check): $885
X. 10dx20w WalkThru fee (paid by credit card/PayPal): $875.5
W. 10dx20w WalkThru fee (paid by check): $850
P. 10dx20w +1Corner fee (paid by credit card/PayPal): $813.7
O. 10dx20w +1Corner fee (paid by check): $790
V. 18dx10w WalkThru fee (paid by credit card/PayPal): $736.46
U. 18dx10w WalkThru fee (paid by check): $715
H. 10dx20w in-line fee (paid by credit card/PayPal): $710.7
N. 8dx20w +1Corner fee (paid by credit card/PayPal): $710.7
G. 10dx20w in-line fee (paid by check): $690
M. 8dx20w +1Corner fee (paid by check): $690
F. 8dx20w in-line fee (paid by credit card/PayPal): $607.7
E. 8dx20w in-line fee (paid by check): $590
L. 10dx10w +1Corner fee (paid by credit card/PayPal): $432.6
T. 10dx10w WalkThru fee (paid by credit card/PayPal): $432.6
K. 10dx10w +1Corner fee (paid by check): $420
S. 10dx10w WalkThru fee (paid by check): $420
J. 8dx10w +1Corner fee (paid by credit card/PayPal): $381.11
I. 8dx10w +1Corner fee (paid by check): $370
D. 10dx10w in-line fee (paid by credit card/PayPal): $355.35
C. 10dx10w in-line fee (paid by check): $345
B. 8dx10w in-line fee (paid by credit card/PayPal): $303.85
A. 8dx10w in-line fee (paid by check): $295
Terms to Apply
Application Fee (Non-refundable): $25
