What began in 1988 as a small fundraising effort – selling hot dogs to Coconut Grove Arts Festival visitors – has blossomed into one of the nation’s largest art shows in its own right, attracting an estimated 30,000 to 50,000 attendees each year.
This year’s event – now known as the St. Stephen’s Art & MakersFest – takes place February 15-17, coinciding with the adjacent Coconut Grove Arts Festival. The two events operate independently.
While the St. Stephen’s fair features a mix of fine art, it also includes more crafted artworks than its larger, older neighbor. Another key difference is its admission price – the St. Stephen’s Art & MakersFest is free. Visitors can access the fair from either Main Highway or McFarlane Road, without entering the adjacent Coconut Grove Arts Festival.
The so-called “People’s Show,” as organizers like to call it, is held within the grounds of St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church and Day School, forming a large, tree-shaded arc from McFarlane Road to Main Highway.
More than 100 artists from around the country will set up booths this year. A variety of musical performances are also scheduled, including the Coconut Grove band Invasive Species.
The festival offers activities for children, including an interactive “Art4Kids” playground, bicycle art stations, and a smoothie-making stand. A traditional Tea Room & Garden will offer homemade English tea, pastries, and coffee. A grill stand will sell conch fritters, onion rings, burgers, and hot dogs. Food prices range from $5 to $10.
For more information – including volunteer opportunities at this year’s event — visit the St. Stephen’s website.
