One of the nation’s premier outdoor art festivals is back this fall as the Bayou City Art Festival returns to Memorial Park Oct. 10-12.
This three-day celebration of creativity, community and culture will take over Memorial Park and feature more than 250 artists from across the country, representing 19 different artistic disciplines.
Whether you’re a collector, enthusiast or casual explorer, there will be something for everyone.
This year’s featured artist, Jonah Ballard, is an acclaimed acrylic painter from Phoenix, Arizona.
From one-of-a-kind sculptures and handmade jewelry to functional art and large-scale paintings, the festival transforms Memorial Park into an open-air gallery. Visitors can meet artists face-to-face, discover emerging talents and purchase original works while enjoying live music, food trucks, beverage stations and a family-friendly Active Imagination Zone for young creators.
Meet the featured artist: Jonah Ballard
Known for his dreamlike, transformational works painted in a signature pink palette, Ballard invites viewers into a world where imagination meets introspection.
A self-taught acrylic painter, Ballard’s journey began at age 15 helping his parents run their hand-painted sign business, The Painted Ladies, in Arizona -- a name he still uses today. Now traveling full time with his family, Ballard shares his work at juried art shows across the U.S., bringing fresh perspectives and soulful expression to every canvas.
At this year’s Bayou City Art Festival, Ballard will debut an exclusive new piece created specifically for Houston. Inspired by the spirit of the West and the layered energy of the city, the work reflects his core themes of transformation, emotional resonance and the power of visual storytelling. Just like much of Ballard’s art, this new artwork captures “a moment of quiet transformation where the unfamiliar begins to feel familiar.”
His role as featured artist highlights the festival’s commitment to artistic diversity and Ballard’s ability to create universally moving, deeply personal art.
Plan your visit
Early bird tickets are available now here.
- $18 for adults (early bird), $20 after Oct. 1.
- $5 for children (ages 5-12).
- $40 for an adult general admission weekend pass.
- $75 for VIP Hospitality Lounge access.
Please note: Tickets must be purchased online in advance. No physical tickets will be sold at the gate.
For those seeking a premium experience, the VIP Hospitality Lounge offers a relaxed, shaded setting with complimentary bites, wine, beer, refreshments and live roaming musicians. VIP access includes entry from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, plus dedicated VIP parking.
Keep up with the latest updates on Bayou City Art Festival’s Facebook or Instagram.