Celebration of the Arts

Celebration of the Arts (COA), organized by the Arts Council of Midland, returns for our 39th year! COA is the cornerstone fine art, fine craft event in the Permian Basin, and is the longest running downtown event in Midland, Texas. COA has a strong reputation locally, with community support year after year, and draws out of town visitors. The festival hosts local entertainers and performers, non-profit organizations, family-friendly activities, and special events throughout the weekend. On Friday evening, we hold a ticketed Premier Party showcasing our juried visual artists to sponsors and ticketed guests. On the following Saturday & Sunday, the festival opens to the general public. Beat the heat inside the air conditioned Bush Convention Center and enjoy a great time with the family!  

Premiere Party:  Friday, July 21, 2023  |  7 – 10PM  |  Ticketed Event
Festival Day: Saturday, July 22, 2023  |  10AM – 5PM  |  Free Admission
Festival Day: Sunday, July 23, 2023  |  Noon – 5PM  |  Free Admission

Come one, Come all! Get your tickets and join us on the evening of July 21 for a three-ring good time of pure entertainment at our Premier Party! Enjoy a wide assortment of heavy hors d’ oeuvres and adult beverages including a Carnival Cosmo! Everyone is an artist, waiting for their turn to perform.  Swing into the visual artists “big top” to shop original artwork before the festival opens Saturday. Bring the entire family!  Live art demonstrations, music, and silent auction benefiting the Arts Council of Midland!  Fun for all ages!

We are excited to celebrate native Midlander, Austin resident Baron Wilson, as our 2023 Distinguished Artist! Baron produces fine art paintings ranging from Texas regional landscapes, still-life, abstracts, and architectural landmarks. Make sure to stop by his booth!