Best Events to Plan a Trip Around in 2026

From art festivals to seafood feasts, live music to local traditions, the New Smyrna Beach Area’s events calendar is filled with celebrations that showcase the creativity and coastal charm of our seaside communities. Every season offers something new to look forward to—making it easy to plan a trip around experiences that feel truly local.

Winter Highlights

IMAGES: A Festival of the Arts

January 24–26, 2026
One of Florida’s premier outdoor art festivals, IMAGES transforms Riverside Drive into an immersive open-air gallery each January. More than 200 juried artists, live entertainment, hands-on creative stations, and a scenic waterfront backdrop make this event the centerpiece of the winter arts season.

Art Fiesta

February 21–22, 2026
A beloved community tradition, Art Fiesta brings artists, crafters, and makers together along Riverside Drive for a lively two-day celebration. Colorful booths, local talent, and a festive coastal atmosphere make it a favorite stop for art lovers of all ages.

Spring Season Festivities

New Smyrna Beach Jazz Festival

Spring 2026
One of Central Florida’s longest-running music celebrations, the New Smyrna Beach Jazz Festival fills venues across the area with soulful performances. Local and regional musicians bring smooth rhythm to spring weekends, creating a lively soundtrack to a coastal getaway.

Turtle Trot Beach 5K

Memorial Day Weekend 2026
Kick off the summer season with this energetic beachfront run. The Turtle Trot Beach 5K welcomes runners, walkers, and holiday-weekend visitors to enjoy ocean views, bright coastal energy, and a fun start to the warm-weather months.

Summer by the Shore

Summer Camps Across the NSB Area

All Summer 2026
From art and nature programs to marine biology sessions and sports activities, local organizations host camps that keep young explorers engaged throughout the season.
Full list available at: https://www.visitnsbfl.com/summer-camps

New Smyrna Beach Shrimp & Seafood Festival

August 2026
A favorite annual tradition, this vibrant festival turns Flagler Avenue into a seaside tasting trail. Fresh local seafood, signature dishes, live entertainment, and coastal charm create an unforgettable summer evening.

Fall & Holiday Traditions

Coastal Catch Restaurant Month

October 2026
A favorite annual tradition, this vibrant festival turns Flagler Avenue into a seaside tasting trail. Fresh local seafood, signature dishes, live entertainment, and coastal charm create an unforgettable summer evening.

Flamingo Follies Holiday Art Show

November 2026
This lively holiday market brings more than 120 artists to Flagler Avenue, offering handcrafted works, seasonal treats, and coastal-inspired gifts—perfect for browsing and shopping under Florida’s fall sunshine.

Light Up Flagler & Coastal Christmas Events

December 2026
The season sparkles with Light Up Flagler, the Coastal Christmas Boat Parade, festive décor, local performances, and holiday cheer throughout the NSB Area. It’s one of the most magical times to explore the destination.

A Year of Coastal Celebration

Beyond the marquee festivals, the New Smyrna Beach Area hosts recurring monthly traditions that keep the calendar vibrant year-round. Community favorites such as the Wine Walk, Classic Cars on Canal, Gallery Walk, Art Walk, and Sip & Stroll offer fun ways to explore our coastal culture in every season.

Every month brings a new reason to visit—making the New Smyrna Beach Area an inspiring place to plan your 2026 getaway.