Arts in the Heart of Augusta returned September 18–20, 2026 at the Augusta Exchange Club Fairgrounds. The Augusta Sheriff’s office estimated that 45,000 people attended over the 2 and a half days of the festival.

“Our attendance may have been down nearly 60 percent, but I promise you, the spirit of the Arts in the Heart of Augusta Festival was up 1,000 percent.” said Denise Tucker, Executive Director of the Greater Augusta Arts Council. “Through the storms, the changes and the unexpected, Augusta showed us exactly who we are: creative, resilient and full of love. The Arts in the Heart of Augusta Festival has never simply been about how many people come through the gates. It is about the heart of the people who do.”

The Global Food Village winners this year included:

• Best in Show – Lebanon
• Best Savory – India
• Best Sweet Treat – Samoa
• Best Street Food – Jamaica
• Heritage Award – India

Fina Artists Market winners included:

• First Place - Jason Rodriguez
• Second Place - Jonathan Hill
• Third Place – Betty Prime
• Merit Award – Lisa Tantillo
• Merit Award – Kat Whatley
• Merit Award – Paul Aude

Festival photos and reels are available on the Arts in the Heart of Augusta Festival facebook and Instagram pages.

Arts in the Heart will return September 15 – 18, 2027. Location will be determined by status of downtown reconstruction.