PALMETTO OPTIMIST 

Frequently Asked Questions

When and where is Art in the Park?

Art in the Park will be held Saturday, March 13, 2027, at Memorial Park in Sumter, South Carolina.

 

Is there an admission fee?

No! Admission to Art in the Park is free. We invite families and community members to come spend the day enjoying art, live performances, children's activities, Reading in the Park, and more.

 

What can I expect at Art in the Park?

Art in the Park is a community celebration of the arts featuring artists and makers, the Creative Showcase, live performing arts, children's art activities, Reading in the Park, food vendors, and more.

 

How can artists participate?

There are several ways to get involved!

Artists may:

• Apply for a booth to display and sell original artwork or handcrafted items

• Enter artwork in the Creative Showcase

• Apply to perform on stage

• Provide a free hands-on art or craft activity for children

• Volunteer during the event

 

How do I apply to be an artist or craft vendor?

Artist and craft vendor applications are available online. Applicants should submit information about the artwork or handcrafted items they plan to offer. [Apply Here]

 

Can I participate if I don't want to sell artwork?

Absolutely! You can enter the Creative Showcase, perform on stage, provide a children's art activity, volunteer, or participate through an eligible community organization.

 

What is the Creative Showcase?

The Creative Showcase is an exhibition and competition celebrating original artwork by artists in our community. Participants may submit eligible artwork for display during Art in the Park, and festival visitors will have the opportunity to enjoy the exhibition throughout the day.

 

Who can enter the Creative Showcase?

Artists of varying ages and experience levels are invited to participate. Please review the current Creative Showcase guidelines for categories, eligibility, artwork requirements, deadlines, and drop-off information. [Creative Showcase Information & Entry Form]

 

Can musicians, dancers, or other performers participate?

Yes! We welcome musicians, dancers, theater groups, performance groups, and other performing artists interested in appearing on the Art in the Park stage. [Apply to Perform]

 

Can my organization provide an activity for children?

Yes! Artists, schools, civic groups, nonprofits, and community organizations are invited to provide free hands-on art or craft activities for children. We especially love activities that give children an opportunity to create something of their own. [Apply to Host a Children's Activity]

 

Can nonprofit and community organizations participate?

Yes. Eligible nonprofit, civic, school, church, military, and community organizations may apply to participate. Please review the application for current guidelines and booth requirements. [Apply to Participate]

 

Can I volunteer at Art in the Park?

Yes! Volunteers help make Art in the Park possible. Opportunities may include event setup, artist and vendor assistance, children's activities, hospitality, Creative Showcase support, and other event-day needs. [Volunteer With Us]

 

What is Reading in the Park?

Reading in the Park is a special part of Art in the Park designed to celebrate creativity through books and literacy while giving children and families another way to engage and explore during the festival.

 

Will food be available?

Yes. Food vendors will be part of the festival so guests can enjoy something to eat while spending the day in the park.

 

Do I need to register to attend?

No. General festival guests do not need to register in advance. Just come and enjoy the day! Registration or an application is required only for those participating as vendors, artists, performers, exhibitors, organizations, or volunteers.

 

Where can I find applications and participation information?

All current applications, guidelines, deadlines, and event information are available right here on the Art in the Park webpage. Choose the participation option that best fits you and follow the appropriate application link.

 

Who presents Art in the Park?

Art in the Park is presented by the Palmetto Optimist Club as part of our commitment to serving children and strengthening our community.

 

Is Art in the Park supported by the South Carolina Arts Commission?

Yes! We are excited that Art in the Park is a recipient of a South Carolina Arts Commission Festival Grant.This project is funded in part by the South Carolina Arts Commission which receives support from the National Endowment for the Arts.

 

I still have a question. Who should I contact?

We'd be happy to help! Please contact the Palmetto Optimist Club through our website or event contact information, and a member of our Art in the Park team will get back to you.