The New Smyrna Beach Area is a haven for artists, art lovers and cultural enthusiasts, and the start of 2025 brings a variety of creative experiences to inspire and delight. From immersive festivals to innovative residencies and performances, this artsy coastal community has something for everyone this January and February. Here’s a look at what’s happening in the arts scene:
IMAGES: A Festival of the Arts
New Smyrna Beach’s premier art festival, IMAGES: A Festival of the Arts, returns for its 49th year on January 24, 25 and 26, 2025. Held along Riverside Drive and Canal Street, this free event showcases the work of more than 250 artists from across the country. Visitors and locals will enjoy live entertainment, indulge in delicious offerings from food trucks and explore creative educational activities designed for children. With $30,000 in cash awards for participating artists, IMAGES promises a vibrant and enriching experience for art enthusiasts and families alike.
63rd Annual Art Fiesta
Mark your calendars for the 63rd Annual Art Fiesta on February 22 and 23, 2025. Taking place along Riverside Drive, this beloved event features more than 200 artists, live entertainment and a variety of delicious fare from local dining establishments. Whether you’re seeking a new piece for your collection or simply want to soak up the creative energy, Art Fiesta is the perfect way to celebrate New Smyrna Beach’s thriving arts community.
Little Theatre of New Smyrna Beach: Little Shop of Horrors
Experience the magic of live theater at Little Theatre of New Smyrna Beach’s production of Little Shop of Horrors. Running from January 30 to February 16, this beloved musical tells the quirky tale of Seymour Krelborn and his bloodthirsty plant, Audrey II. With its catchy R&B-inspired score and dark humor, this production is sure to entertain. Little Shop of Horrors is recommended for ages 12 and older.
Atlantic Center for the Arts: Residency with Dani Ferreira Amaro
The Atlantic Center for the Arts (ACA) continues to shape the global arts landscape with its innovative residency programs. This winter, ACA Soundscape Field Station, in partnership with Canaveral National Seashore, welcomes transdisciplinary sound artist Dani Ferreira Amaro as the 2025 artist-in-residence. This residency coincides with the 50th anniversary of the National Park Service’s designation of Canaveral National Seashore as a protected area.
Amaro will spend her residency at ACA creating a site-specific tactile sound sculpture made from Sargassum seaweed and cultural materials representing Florida’s heritage, such as Sankofa ironwork. This fascinating project highlights parallels between ocean preservation and cultural preservation. The residency runs from February 24 to March 31, offering opportunities to explore the intersection of sound, art and nature. The public is invited to view Amaro’s sound sculpture from March 17 to 30 at Canaveral National Seashore, where entry is free with park admission.
