Home - An Occasion for the Arts

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An Occasion for All

150+ Artists ✦ 2 Days ✦ Live Performances ✦ Food Vendors ✦ Free Admission

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October 3-4 2026
Williamsburg, VA

Since 1969, artists from across the country — and around the corner — have gathered each October to share their work in Williamsburg’s historic streets, celebrating creativity, curiosity, and community.

Plan your visit

Spend a fall weekend
exploring artwork with us.

Updates

Follow festival news, announcements, features, and stories.

Updates from On Occasion

Parking

Park at the Colonial Williamsburg Visitor Center, 101 Visitor Center Drive. Parking is $10/day with complimentary shuttle service to the Historic Area. P3, Prince George Street and Boundary Street are closed for festival activities.

Accomodations

Hotels, inns, B&Bs, and nearby camping options.

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Zones

Areas of the festival.

Main Street, Front Porch, Avant Garden, Block Party, Patron’s Patio

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Location

Williamsburg, Virginia

A historic college town with a lively creative energy. Founded 1699.

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Dates

October 2-4, 2026

Friday (Kickoff Party: 6pm), Saturday – Sunday (10am – 5pm), the first weekend in October.

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Mixed Media & Digital✦Drawing & Pastels✦Painting✦Photography✦Printmaking✦Fiber & Textiles✦Ceramics✦Glass✦Jewelry✦Metal✦Sculpture✦Wood

Founded in 1969, An Occasion for the Arts brings artists, performers, and audiences together in Williamsburg for a weekend of creative exchange, cultural experience, and community connection.

What began as a local celebration has grown into one of the region’s leading art and music festivals, presenting work by distinguished artists from across the country each year during the first weekend in October.

Read History