ABOUT THE FAMILY AREA
Family Friendly Fun Things to See and Do!
The Family Area at the annual Arts in the Heart of Augusta Festival is a vibrant, interactive destination created especially for children and families to explore the joy of creativity together. Filled with hands-on art activities, live performances, cultural experiences, street performers, and the beloved Young Artists Market, the Family Area gives kids of all ages the opportunity to paint, build, play, dance, and discover new forms of artistic expression in a welcoming and exciting environment. From puppet shows and storytelling to face painting, music, and collaborative community art projects, every corner is designed to spark imagination and encourage curiosity.
Experiencing the arts at a young age plays an important role in helping children build confidence, creativity, communication skills, and cultural awareness. The Family Area offers a space where young people can not only engage with the arts, but also see themselves as artists, makers, and creative thinkers. By introducing children to a wide variety of artistic traditions and experiences, Arts in the Heart helps inspire the next generation of creators while creating meaningful memories for families throughout the community.
The Family Area Cultural Arts and Crafts Program!
The Cultural Arts + Crafts Passport activities are more fun than ever this year!
Start your travels by grabbing a passport and set of “wings” from the Family Area Main tent. Here little arts travelers can draw their passport photo, and begin their adventure around the world! By participating in arts and crafts activities while learning about the cultures and histories that drive them, our young arts lovers develop a deeper understanding and appreciation of the arts, culture, and hone their own creativity.
Once you complete as many destinations as you can, return to the main Family Area tent for your happy-world-traveler goody bag!
Booths are run by local non-profits, businesses and organizations based in the CSRA! All Cultural Arts and Crafts Activities are free to kids and the young-art-heart at all ages and experiences.
Want to become a Family Area booth? Applications are opening soon! Email heather@augustaarts.com for more information,
The Family Stage & Street Performers
Numerous local dance, music and theatre performances with local schools, groups and individuals participate on the Family Stage. Acts run all festival hours! There is something for everyone in the Family Area at Arts in the Heart of Augusta.
Street Performances include puppetry acts, street magic, bubble blowing, dance instruction, play sword fighting, character actors, and more!
Want to become a Family Stage or Street Performer? The 2026 stage application is open! To apply, visit: https://augustaarts.wufoo.com/forms/2026-arts-in-the-heart-performer-application/
Link also through button below!
Deadline June 10, 2026 or until all slots are filled!
The Young Artist Market (AKA The YAM)
Arts in the Heart LOVES our young artists and this market allows school-aged children and youth from Kindergarteners to High School Seniors to sell their artistic wares. Youth Emerging Artist Members, as part of the Creative Futures Program, are eligible to participate in this market. It’s a fun area of the festival and a great way to support our emerging artists.
Are you a kid interested in participating in the YAM? Applications are open through September 4, 2026. To learn more and apply, visit: https://augustaarts.wufoo.com/forms/young-artist-market-arts-in-the-heart-2026/
Link also through button below!
But first, read the rules, regulations and FAQs by clicking: Young Artist Market Rules and Regulations 2026
