Mill Valley Fall Arts Festival Opens Applications for Emerging Artist Program and Student Scholarships for ’26
The Mill Valley Fall Arts Festival has opened applications for its Emerging Artist Program and Student Scholarship opportunities for 2026. The festival will take place September 19–20 in downtown Mill Valley.
Now entering its 69th year, the Mill Valley Fall Arts Festival is one of Northern California’s most respected fine art and craft events. Set within a scenic redwood grove, the festival features more than 130 artists presenting original, hand-made work.
The Emerging Artist Program is designed to support artists early in their creative careers who have not yet had the opportunity to exhibit and sell their work at a major art show. The program is open to artists who may have participated in small exhibitions or shows, but are still developing their professional practice.
While there is no strict age limit, the program is particularly intended for local high school and college artists who are ready to take the next step and present their work to a broader audience.
In addition, the festival will award twelve scholarships to visual arts students from high schools across Marin County, with eligibility now expanded to include all Marin high school students:
- Six Junior scholarships ($250 each), including the opportunity to have artwork featured on festival merchandise
- Six Senior scholarships ($500 each), including merchandise opportunities and the chance to exhibit in the Emerging Artists Grove during the festival
“Supporting emerging artists and students has always been central to our mission,” said Brett Crawford, Mill Valley Fall Arts Festival Committee Chair. “These programs are about creating opportunity and giving the next generation of artists a platform to share their work and connect with the community.”
Applications for the Emerging Artist Program are due May 15, 2026, and Student Scholarship applications are due April 30, 2026.
The festival is also currently accepting applications from artists for the 2026 event. General artist applications are open through May 15. More than 130 artists are selected each year by a panel of six jurors, with a new jury panel appointed annually.
Renowned for its strong community atmosphere and high-quality artists, the festival draws collectors and visitors from across Marin County, San Francisco, and the greater Bay Area. In addition to artist booths, the event features live local music, a dedicated children’s art grove with hands-on activities, and food and wine offerings from local nonprofits and vendors—all set within a breathtaking outdoor redwood grove.
More information, including applications, guidelines, and event details, is available at MVFAF.org. Artists are encouraged to apply early to take advantage of reduced fees and secure consideration for this highly attended event.