Lake Worth Beach Street Painting Festival
When: February 22-23
Where: Downtown Lake Worth Beach (Lake and Lucerne Avenues)
Insider Tip: Park for free at Palm Beach State College and take the festival’s courtesy shuttle.
The Lake Worth Beach Street Painting Festival attracts more than 100,000 people and results in around 250 new chalk creations each year. While many festivals recruit professionals, Lake Worth Beach prioritizes budding talent. “We have over 100 paintings created by local elementary, middle, and high school students, and that has been a huge part of the success of the festival,” says Maryanne Webber, executive director and artist coordinator. Artists utilize chalk and pavement in place of paint and canvas, so the art lasts only as long as the weather allows, but the creation process is the focus. “It’s a temporary thing,” adds Webber. “You watch it while it’s happening. The artwork itself is the interaction of the artist and the viewer.”
Garlic Fest
When: February 8-9
Where: John Prince Park, Lake Worth Beach
Insider Tip: Make a day of it and bring a blanket or chair to set up a home base in the park.
Garlic Fest is planning an epic—and pungent—twenty-first birthday party. New this year, attendees can go VIP and enjoy a raised viewing area above the crowds. Don’t miss live reggae courtesy of The Expendables and The Wailers, as well as laid-back blues from G. Love & Special Sauce. Of course, what is Garlic Fest without an array of garlic-infused foods? In addition to the famous garlic ice cream, the garlic nachos are another must-try. “These aren’t just regular nachos,” says Lindi DiMaio, the festival’s marketing and communications director. “You’re going to want to bring your breath mints. The garlic tater tots are also out of this world.”
ArtiGras Fine Arts Festival
When: February 15-16
Where: Central Boulevard, Abacoa, Jupiter
Insider Tip: Volunteers can attend the festival for free before or after their shift.
Now in its thirty-fifth year, ArtiGras has grown to include 300 artists, 1,000 volunteers, 60 vendors, and attractions like a KidZone, live entertainment, and more. “With 13 different mediums of fine art for sale, there’s a piece of art for everyone,” assures Bianca Colon, director of events with the Palm Beach North Chamber of Commerce. “We’re also bringing back the patron program this year to give art lovers a VIP experience.” Patron program members receive $375 in ArtiDollars, which can be used toward the purchase of art at the festival, plus lunch, beverages, a signed 2020 ArtiGras poster, and other perks.
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