SUMMER FESTIVAL
OF THE ARTS
Artist Registration Is Now Live!
On the Campus of
Youngstown State University
Apply Today!
A
ABOUT THIS EVENT
Join us July 11 and 12 at YSU!

Thank you for being part of one of the region’s most vibrant summer traditions — the Summer Festival of the Arts at Youngstown State University!

This year’s celebration brought together talented artists, inspiring performers, delicious food, and thousands of visitors who made the weekend unforgettable. From browsing unique handmade art to enjoying live music and family activities, we loved seeing our community come together to celebrate creativity.

We’re already looking forward to welcoming you back next summer. The 2026 Summer Festival of the Arts will be held at YSU's campus on July 11-12, 2026. Until then, thank you for supporting the arts and helping make this festival such a special part of Youngstown’s story. See you next year!

WHERE

Youngstown State University

Artist Applications Are Now Open!

Apply Today!
  • fire_glass
  • west_side_yo
  • buddies
  • couple
  • necklace_setup
  • rock_plant
  • signs
F J Metcalf Arts LTD – Frances Metcalf
IJL Creations – Joann Lecrone
By the Lake Jewelry – Chris Smith
MishMoccs – Micheline Thompson
Fish the Pyro’s Glass – Ryan Fisher
Atlas & Aether – Ashley Smith
Tracey Lopshansky
Bellcamp Art – Charlene Pallante
Bradleave – Brad Noble
Meet Last Year's Artists

Thank you once again to the incredible artists who made last year’s Summer Festival of the Arts so special! From painting and sculpture to jewelry, ceramics, photography, and beyond, your creativity and craftsmanship brought the festival to life.

This gallery showcases the talented individuals who shared their work with our community. We’re grateful for your dedication, passion, and the inspiration you bring to Youngstown. We invite everyone to explore, rediscover your favorite pieces, and continue supporting these amazing artists all year long.

Artist applications are live for 2026! Jurying will take place in April, so apply today.

Explore More
Harry Smith
Bruce Mason
Larry Sallivan
Damian Petrovsky
Rose Charlston
AJ Minotti
Landon Reid
Paolo Vincezzo
Henry Lee
Leila Mason
Morgan Chapman
Bella Ferdinandes
S
THE BEST IN GROWTH
Many Talent Experts

July 2019 will bring together over 100 founders, start-up enthusiasts, corporates, angel investors, VCs, and media from across the globe.

ALL SPEAKERS
TESTIMONIALS
Landon Mason
CEO of Proximity
Jeffery Berry
Creative Director
Mark Crawford
Security Officer
Donald Simpson
envato.com

“It was really fun getting to know the team during the project. They were all helpful in answering my questions and made me feel at ease. “

“Thanks again for the terrific digital marketing training last month. Hardly a day has gone by where I haven't called upon the knowledge shared.“

“I really want to share our project sponsor’s feedback to you immediately, as I'm so proud of you and it's a pity that I did not join the May session! “

“I'd never seen the evidence for business change presented so clearly. Now I understand what's happening and what we've got to do.“

Summer Festival of the Arts gratefully acknowledges support from the following

Sponsors

Latest Updates

Updates
January 5, 2026
Applications Are Now Open for the 2026 Summer Festival of the Arts
Applications Are Now Open for the 2026 Summer Festival of the Arts

Artist applications for the 2026 Summer Festival of the Arts are officially live. Held on the park-like, urban campus of Youngstown State University, the Summer Festival of the Arts celebrates the diversity of art in the Mahoning Valley through a juried fine art and fine craft festival, live performances, and strong community engagement. The festival …

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Updates
November 19, 2025
Artist Applications for the 2026 Summer Festival of the Arts Open January 1
Artist Applications for the 2026 Summer Festival of the Arts Open January 1

Youngstown State University is excited to share that artist applications for the 2026 Summer Festival of the Arts will open on January 1, 2026. If you’re interested in exhibiting at next year’s festival, simply check back on the SFA website on January 1 for the official application link. We’ll also announce when applications are live …

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Updates
July 10, 2025
Eat Your Way Through the Summer Festival of the Arts!
Eat Your Way Through the Summer Festival of the Arts!

Find all our food vendors at Food Ave., near Maag Library. The Summer Festival of the Arts isn’t just about creativity on canvas or stage—it’s also about amazing food! This year, we’ve gathered a fantastic lineup of food vendors to satisfy every craving, whether you’re in the mood for savory classics, international flavors, or sweet …

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Updates
July 7, 2025
Know Before You Go
Know Before You Go

This weekend, the Summer Festival of the Arts returns to Youngstown State University for a celebration of creativity and community. Here’s your guide to making the most of your visit: ???? Getting There The festival takes place on the YSU campus, right across Fifth Avenue from the main parking areas. Address for GPS:500 5th AveYoungstown, …

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Updates
June 4, 2025
Creative Fun for Kids at the SMARTS Children’s Arts Tent!
Creative Fun for Kids at the SMARTS Children’s Arts Tent!

We’re thrilled to welcome SMARTS (Students Motivated by the Arts) to the 2025 Summer Festival of the Arts at Youngstown State University! As your community art school, SMARTS will host the Children’s Arts Tent, offering hands-on arts activities for children of all ages throughout the weekend. SMARTS, your community art school will be leading hands-on …

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Updates
May 7, 2025
Live Music Lineup Set for the 2025 Summer Festival of the Arts!
Live Music Lineup Set for the 2025 Summer Festival of the Arts!

Get ready to sing, dance, and groove your way through the weekend at the 27th Annual Summer Festival of the Arts at Youngstown State University! Our live music lineup features an incredible mix of local legends, soulful voices, rising talent, and high-energy performers you won’t want to miss. From indie folk to bluesy rock to …

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Updates
May 6, 2025
Get a Sneak Peek – Meet Our Artists!
Get a Sneak Peek – Meet Our Artists!

We’re excited to give you an early look at the incredible talent joining us for the 27th Annual Summer Festival of the Arts at Youngstown State University! Visit our Meet Our Artists page to preview the amazing creators who will be showcasing their work across a variety of mediums—from painting and pottery to jewelry, sculpture, …

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Updates
April 3, 2025
Artist Submissions Are In – Thank You!
Artist Submissions Are In – Thank You!

A heartfelt thank you to the nearly 90 incredible artists who submitted applications for the 27th Annual Summer Festival of the Arts at Youngstown State University! We’re thrilled by the creativity, talent, and passion shown across all submissions. We are now officially in the jurying phase of the process. Each application is being carefully reviewed …

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Updates
January 28, 2025
Artist Applications Now Open for the 27th Annual Summer Festival of the Arts!
Artist Applications Now Open for the 27th Annual Summer Festival of the Arts!

Calling all artists! Applications are now open for the 27th Annual Summer Festival of the Arts, taking place July 12 and 13, 2025, on the beautiful campus of Youngstown State University. This is your opportunity to showcase your work at one of the region’s most celebrated arts events! The festival welcomes artists of all mediums, …

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Find Us
1 Tressel Way Youngstown, Ohio 44555