Children’s Festival of the Arts returns April 18

The City of Yuma's Arts and Culture Division invites the community to the 33rd annual Children's Festival of the Arts on Saturday, April 18, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in front of the Yuma Art Center (254 south Main Street). This free, family-friendly event is open to all ages.

This year's festival features an America 250 theme in celebration of the nation's 250^th birthday. Interactive art activities and exhibits will highlight all 50 states, national monuments, and U.S. presidents. As part of the experience, the Yuma Art Center galleries will be transformed into a "White House" inspired exhibit, featuring symbolic recreations of rooms such as the Oval Office, Blue Room, East Room, and Green Room.

Throughout the day, families can explore more than 50 free make-and-take art booths, where children can create hands-on art projects and take home their own masterpieces. The event also includes a foam party, food vendors, community booths, and live youth performances featuring local dance studios, martial arts demonstrations, and music acts.

Inside the Yuma Art Center, visitors can explore the annual Youth Art Exhibition, showcasing student artwork submitted by teachers from across Yuma County and Winterhaven. The exhibition features artwork from over 30 teachers, representing grades K-12 in a wide variety of mediums, including watercolor, acrylic, colored pencil, graphite, and ceramics.

"Children's Festival of the Arts is a celebration of creativity, imagination, and young voices," said Kristyn Trujillo, Recreation Program Coordinator. "The festival gives students a chance to see their artwork displayed in a real gallery setting, building confidence and pride in their work."

For event details, visit yumaaz.gov/ChildrensFest.