Children’s Arts Festival
Celebrating the Next Generation of Creativity.
Welcome to the
Children’s Arts Festival!
The Children’s Arts Festival is an annual regional celebration dedicated to showcasing the creativity and artistic achievements of K–12 students throughout Southeast Missouri. Each year, inspired students create original works of art, with teachers across the region encouraged to submit work on behalf of their young artists. Selected pieces are exhibited and celebrated by the community, giving students the exciting opportunity to see their artwork displayed in a professional gallery setting. Through the festival, the Arts Council celebrates young artists, supports arts education, and helps encourage a lifelong appreciation for creativity throughout our region.
Calling All Teachers!
Educators throughout Southeast Missouri are invited to submit artwork from their K–12 students for the annual Children’s Arts Festival, held at the Arts Council Gallery, 426 Broadway in Cape Girardeau, MO. The exhibition traditionally remains on display throughout February, giving students, families, and the community an opportunity to celebrate young artists from across the region.
Following the exhibition, selected works may travel to Jefferson City for Fine Arts Education Day, while remaining artwork will be returned to participating schools. Teachers are always encouraged to contact the Arts Council with questions or for assistance with the submission process.
Teachers may submit up to five works per grade level
Submissions may include one three-dimensional work
Teachers may also submit one poem
The annual festival theme is optional and provided for inspiration
Submission information
Intend to Participate?
Teachers planning to participate in the February exhibition should complete the Intent to Participate form by October. Don’t worry—you’ll still have until the end of the semester to collect and select your students’ artwork. A Zoom information session will be offered near the end of September to answer questions, gather feedback, and help educators prepare for the exhibition. Be sure to review the Teacher Information Packet for complete details on important dates, submission requirements, Fine Arts Education Day, and more.
The Intent to Participate form is completed during the fall
Artwork is generally collected near the end of the fall semester
Specific 2027 dates, submission requirements, and festival theme will be announced once finalized
Want to support The
Children’s Art Festival?
Events like the Children’s Arts Festival are made possible through the generosity of people who believe young artists deserve opportunities to create, exhibit, and be celebrated. By making a donation or becoming an Arts Council member, you directly support exhibitions, educational programs, community events, and experiences that bring the arts to people throughout Southeast Missouri. Your support helps us keep creating spaces where the next generation of artists can shine.