MEDIA ALERT

THE TEMPE FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS RETURNS TO DOWNTOWN TEMPE DECEMBER 6-8 WITH ART, FAMILY FUN AND LOCAL FLAVORS

The 2024 fall festival promises an incredible three-day event showcasing top-tier art, live performances, and hands-on fun for all ages.

Tempe, AZ – December 1, 2024 – One of the Southwest’s longest-standing and most anticipated events, the Tempe Festival of the Arts, will return to Downtown Tempe from Dec. 6–8, 2024. The festival, which runs daily, will feature more than 350 juried artists showcasing their creations across 18 categories, including wood, ceramics, jewelry, photography, and wearable art.

Perfect for holiday shopping, visitors can explore a diverse array of fine art and handmade goods while enjoying delicious offerings from over 15 local food vendors. Options include everything from classic BBQ and international bites to sweet treats. This year’s festival highlights sustainability with three free water refill stations, sponsored by Tempe Water Utilities, to keep attendees hydrated and reduce waste. Guests are encouraged to bring reusable water bottles or purchase one on-site.

The Fall 2024 Featured Artist is Matt Conlon, a seasoned artist with numerous accolades, including Best in Show at the 2023 Tempe Festival of the Arts. Conlon’s intricate high-fired porcelain pieces are hand-carved with stunning patterns that blend both historical and contemporary influences. Drawing inspiration from the clean lines of Art Deco and Mid-Century design, his work is rooted in traditional ceramics but elevated with a modern flair. Conlon’s pieces showcase a unique fusion of elegance and craftsmanship.

Food and Beverage Experiences

The festival will feature three beer and wine gardens, hosted by Pedal Haus Brewery and Four Peaks Brewing Company, open all three days. On Saturday, Dec. 7, and Sunday, Dec. 8, visitors can enjoy the Wine & Spirits Tasting Experience, presented by Waymo. Located in Centerpoint Plaza, this experience features 14 Arizona wineries and distilleries. Guests can elevate their tasting with a premium cigar from RichKat Mobile Cigar Lounge, a new addition to the festival. Waymo, the festival’s official ride-hail partner, will provide hassle-free transportation to and from the festival.

Live Entertainment and Interactive Experiences

Festival-goers can enjoy live entertainment at the Bluegrass Experience with Jam Pak at the Jam Pak Party Tent on 7th & Mill and rotating performances at the Centerpoint Stage. A new feature, Brushstrokes and Beats, will showcase live interactive painting with Laura Thurbon, allowing attendees to engage with the creative process.

Kid-Friendly Programming

Families can enjoy a variety of activities in the Kids Block, sponsored by LEGOLAND Discovery Center Arizona. Offerings include balloon art by Atomic Balloons, crafts, interactive experiences, and live demonstrations by LEGO Master Builders. The Kids Block will be open all day on Saturday, Dec. 7, and Sunday, Dec. 8.

Chalk-A-Lot Street

The festival’s Chalk-A-Lot Street will feature 10 muralists, each creating a unique art piece inspired by the theme “Dreamscapes: Where Imagination Meets Reality.” Visitors can watch the murals come to life over the course of the festival and vote for the “People’s Choice” award. Arizona Flower Market, the presenting sponsor of Chalk-A-Lot Street, will showcase nine floral interpretations inspired by the 2024 Tempe Blooms murals, with attendees voting for “Best Floral Interpretation.”

Event Hours:

Friday, December 6: 10:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.

Saturday, December 7: 10:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.

Sunday, December 8: 10:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Location: 

The festival will be held on Mill Avenue and surrounding streets in Downtown Tempe. Admission is free, dog-friendly and open to the public.

For more information about The Tempe Festival of the Arts, please visit: https://tempefestivalofthearts.com/

View a Festival Map

Purchase Wine & Spirits Pre-Sale Tickets Here

View Information About Transportation Options and Parking

Access Visuals for the Event

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About Downtown Tempe Authority: Since 1993, the award‐winning Downtown Tempe Authority  has been the private, non‐profit organization that works in partnership with the City of Tempe to increase the value of Downtown Tempe through enhanced management, safety, marketing and promotional services on behalf of DTA members and other downtown stakeholders.

Media Contact: Chelsey Velasquez

Marketing Coordinator

Downtown Tempe Authority

(602) 919-3009

Chelsey@downtowntempe.com