Patrons shop at an artist's tent during Artsfest on Historic Walnut Street
Artsfest on Historic Walnut Street draws crowds on sunny weekend in Springfield. (Photo by Shannon Cay Bowers)

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The Springfield Regional Arts Council is accepting applications for artists, nonprofits, food vendors, performers and other vendors for Artsfest on Historic Walnut Street.

The annual festival returns May 4-5 and expects to have more than 120 vendors and more than 30,000 attendees from across the country. This year’s theme is “Creativity Unleashed.”

“Artsfest on Historic Walnut Street is more than just an event; it’s a vibrant gathering spot where we all come together to celebrate our local culture,” Leslie Forrester, executive director for the Springfield Regional Arts Council, said in a press release. “It’s a place where creative minds get to shine and grow their businesses, and where each of us plays a part in shaping the economy and the vibe of our community. It’s not just about enjoying the art; it’s about being a part of something bigger that’s happening right in our backyard.”

Artist vendor applications are due by Jan. 19. Applications for nonprofits, food vendors, performers and general vendors opened Jan. 12. Applications can be found on the Artsfest website.

Proceeds from festival admissions benefit the Springfield Regional Arts Council, a nonprofit organization dedicated to “transforming lives through the arts.” Artsfest on Historic Walnut Street also supports the Downtown Springfield Association, a community development organization focused on enhancing the downtown experience.


Jeff Kessinger

Jeff Kessinger is the Reader Engagement Editor for the Hauxeda, and the voice of its daily newsletter SGF A.M. He covered sports in southwest Missouri for the better part of 20 years, from young athletes to the pros. The Springfield native and Missouri State University alumnus is thrilled to be doing journalism in the Queen City, helping connect the community with important information. He and wife Jamie daily try to keep a tent on the circus that is a blended family of five kids and three cats. More by Jeff Kessinger