Where art meets water in Sahuarita’s cultural centerpiece.
Discover art, culture, and creativity flowing across the lake.
A festival of imagination in Sahuarita’s scenic backyard.
Celebrate local artists with lakeside views and global traditions.
Intimate, immersive, and inspired—25 artisans, one unforgettable day.
From floating art to folklórico dancers, creativity fills the park.
The lake transforms into a canvas of community expression.
Support local artisans while enjoying music, food, and performances.
See, hear, taste, and touch art in every form.
Come for the lake views, stay for the artistry.
Sahuarita Art on the Lake Festival
Saturday, January 10, 2026
Get ready for a day where art and community come alive on the water. The Sahuarita Art on the Lake Festival returns for its third year, transforming the stunning Sahuarita Lake Park into a cultural playground where imagination, music, and creativity flow as seamlessly as the water itself.
This year’s event expands its artistic reach, offering more immersive experiences than ever before. Along the park’s tree-lined pathways, 25 hand-selected artisan booths will showcase original works in painting, sculpture, jewelry, ceramics, and beyond—each piece as unique as the artist who created it. Intimate by design, the festival gives visitors the rare chance to meet makers face-to-face, hear their stories, and bring home art that carries the soul of the Southwest.
The lake itself becomes a stage: floating art installations shimmer across the water, blending nature with artistic expression in breathtaking new ways. On land, the energy continues with live street painting, interactive art zones, and a community chalk mural competition where participants of all ages can leave their creative mark.
Adding to the festival’s global flair, cultural performances will bring rhythm, movement, and tradition to life. From the thundering beats of mariachi and the vibrancy of folklórico dancers to the iconic spectacle of a Chinese lion dance, the day celebrates artistic expression in every form. Food trucks and live music add flavor and atmosphere, ensuring every corner of the park hums with discovery and delight.
By joining us, you’re not only experiencing art—you’re investing in local artists, uplifting Sahuarita’s creative economy, and building cultural connections that strengthen community identity. This is more than a festival—it’s a movement of creativity, culture, and shared celebration on the lake.
Dates & Times
January 10, 2026
Saturday 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Free Admission
Location & Parking
Sahuarita Lake Park
Sahuarita Lake Park
15466 S Rancho Sahuarita Blvd, Sahuarita, AZ 85629
Nestled in the heart of the community, Sahuarita Lake Park is a 15-acre oasis featuring a scenic, man-made lake encircled by a one-mile walking path. The park offers shaded ramadas, playgrounds for kids, open green spaces, and fishing piers—all serving as the backdrop for the festival. With sweeping desert mountain views and tranquil waters, the park is a natural fit for a cultural gathering that blends art and nature in harmony.
Featured Artisans & Exhibitors
With only 25 curated artisan booths, the festival delivers an intimate and high-quality art market. Attendees can discover original paintings, handcrafted jewelry, sculptures, ceramics, textiles, and more—each piece reflecting the individuality of its maker. The setting encourages meaningful conversations between artists and buyers, giving each purchase a story and a connection that lasts well beyond the festival.
Entertainment & Activities
Creativity doesn’t just happen on stage or in booths—it happens in every corner of the festival. Attendees of all ages can take part in hands-on art projects, street painting demonstrations, and immersive cultural performances, including live music, mariachi, folklórico dance, and a cirque demonstrations. These experiences transform Sahuarita Lake Park into a dynamic stage for imagination, movement, and community joy.
MainStage Cultural Music and Dance Performances Throughout the Day
Community Painting Mural hosted by local artist, Eliza Plumlee
Comic Bookmobile Literary Arts Experience
Community Chalk Art Experience
Plein Air Painting Competition
Strolling Cirque Performances, Juggling, and AcroYoga
Festival Scavenger Hunt
Interactive Kidszone with free arts and crafts stations
Facepainting with Sparkled Wings
MainStage Performance Schedule
Featured Artists
Food Vendors
Savor the flavors of Southern Arizona with an array of food trucks and local vendors offering everything from quick bites to full meals. Whether you’re in the mood for something savory, sweet, or refreshing, the food court will be buzzing with options to keep you fueled throughout the day. Dining lakeside adds to the festival’s relaxed and inviting atmosphere.
Plein Air Painting Competition
This January, Art State Arizona invites you to celebrate the beauty of the natural world and the talents of local artists at Sahuarita Lake Park. As a centerpiece of our Art on the Lake Festival, we’re thrilled to present the Plein Air Painting Competition, an event designed to capture the essence of the outdoors on canvas.
Artists of all ages and skill levels are invited to join us for this exciting artistic challenge. Plein air painting is the practice of painting outdoors, directly capturing landscapes and scenes in natural light. This method requires artists to observe and depict the immediate effects of sunlight and weather, which adds a vibrant and spontaneous feel to the artwork. With your easel set against the backdrop of bustling festival life and the stunning landscapes of Sahuarita, you’ll find endless inspiration in our three competition categories:
Over 30 participants will compete for attractive cash prizes. $2000 total in prizes are to be awarded:
Artists of all ages and skill levels are invited to join us for this exciting artistic challenge. Plein air painting is the practice of painting outdoors, directly capturing landscapes and scenes in natural light. This method requires artists to observe and depict the immediate effects of sunlight and weather, which adds a vibrant and spontaneous feel to the artwork. With your easel set against the backdrop of bustling festival life and the stunning landscapes of Sahuarita, you’ll find endless inspiration in our three competition categories:
- Nature: From the subtle shifts of light on the desert flora to the sweeping lakeside and Santa Rita Mountain landscapes, let nature be your muse.
- Architecture: Depict the interplay of light, texture, and atmosphere in built environments, highlighting their beauty and community significance through plein air painting.
- People: Reflect the spirit and diversity of the community with portraits and scenes capturing human moments at the festival.
Over 30 participants will compete for attractive cash prizes. $2000 total in prizes are to be awarded:
- 1st Place: $300 for each Category
- 2nd Place: $200 for each Category
- Special Award – Judges Choice – Best in Show $300
- Young artists under 18 can also showcase their talents in the Youth category, with a special prize of $200 for the best paintings.
Participate as an Artist or Exhibitor at the Festival
Showcase your creativity at one of Southern Arizona’s most vibrant fall celebrations. The Festival welcomes visual artists and exhibitors working in all mediums—from painting, sculpture, and photography to jewelry, ceramics, and wearable art. This juried, two-day outdoor festival draws thousands of attendees eager to discover and purchase unique, fine art handcrafted works. As an artist or exhibitor, you’ll connect directly with enthusiastic buyers, gain exposure in a dynamic marketplace, and be part of a signature event that celebrates art, flavor, and community.
Questions? Contact Festivals@ArtStateAZ.org
Volunteer
Volunteer with us and be part of the excitement at the Sahuarita Art on the Lake Festival! From welcoming guests and supporting artists to helping the event run smoothly behind the scenes, there’s a role for everyone. Opportunities include artist relief, artist hospitality, information booth and festival ambassador roles, and event setup and breakdown.
Volunteer shifts will be posted and available for sign-up beginning 30 days prior to the event—join us in creating an unforgettable celebration of art, flavor, and community.
Sponsor the Event
The Sahuarita Art on the Lake Festival is more than an event—it’s an investment in culture, community, and creativity. Sponsorship directly fuels a platform where artists, families, and neighbors come together to celebrate the transformative power of the arts in daily life.
As a sponsor, your brand will:
Strengthen the Local Creative Economy: Support 25 local and regional artists, artisans, and makers who rely on this event to showcase their work and sustain their livelihoods.
Amplify Community Identity: Align with a signature event that enhances Sahuarita’s reputation as a hub for culture, innovation, and family-friendly engagement.
Showcase Corporate Social Responsibility: Position your business as a champion of arts, education, and cultural vitality in Southern Arizona.
Engage Thousands of Attendees: Connect directly with festival-goers through on-site visibility, meaningful brand integration, and authentic community interaction.
Build Long-Term Goodwill: Create lasting impressions by supporting programs that foster creativity, inspire cultural understanding, and enrich the quality of life in our region.
Tips for Attending the Festival
Tips for Attending the Festival
Free Parking: Parking is available in surrounding lots along Rancho Sahuarita Blvd., with overflow parking in nearby community areas. Volunteers and signage will direct you.
Arrive Early: With only 25 artisan booths, early arrival ensures you get first access to unique, one-of-a-kind works.
Dress Comfortably: The festival is fully outdoors—wear walking shoes, sun protection, and bring layers for cooler January breezes.
Family-Friendly: Interactive chalk murals and art zones are open to children and families—perfect for hands-on creativity.
Food & Beverage: A variety of food trucks will be on-site, offering snacks, meals, and refreshments throughout the day.
Cash & Card: Many artists accept cards, but cash is recommended for quicker transactions.
Pets: Leashed pets are welcome, but please keep them comfortable and hydrated.



