The Art on the Lake Festival will return to Sahuarita Lake Park for its fourth year on January 10, 2026. The event, organized by Art State Arizona in partnership with the Town of Sahuarita, aims to highlight local and global art and culture through a variety of performances and interactive experiences.
This year’s festival features a lineup of performances from groups representing diverse cultural traditions. The Mainstage will host acts such as the Arizona Folklórico Dance Co., Tucson Highlanders, Jaliya, Philippine Mabuhay Cultural Foundation, Tesoro, and Odaiko Sonora. These groups bring styles ranging from Hispanic folkloric dance to West African drumming and Japanese taiko.
Attendees can participate in several hands-on activities. The Plein Air Painting Competition encourages artists to create works inspired by their surroundings at Sahuarita Lake for a chance to win prizes totaling $2,000. There will also be an expanded floating art installation featuring colorful orbs on the lake, a community chalk art competition with categories like “Best Sahuarita Landscape & Wildlife,” and an interactive mural wall led by Eliza Plumlee that will later be displayed at La Villita Community Center.
Pop-up performances throughout the day include Zach the Juggler and Cirque Collective acrobatic acts. Children’s activities are provided by Friends of the Pima County Public Library with story readings in the KidsZone and drawing workshops hosted by Frank Powers from The Comic Bookmobile.
Local artisans will have booths selling handcrafted goods such as jewelry and ceramics. Food vendors will offer various options including Egyptian cuisine, vegan dishes, Salvadorian pupusas, and desserts.
The festival is scheduled for Saturday, January 10 from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM at Sahuarita Lake Park (15466 S Rancho Sahuarita Blvd). Admission is free. More information about the event can be found at https://artstateaz.org/sahuarita-art-on-the-lake-festival/.
Art State Arizona is a nonprofit organization focused on promoting arts as essential to daily life across Arizona through festivals, public art projects, health partnerships, and artist-led initiatives. Formerly known as SAACA (Southern Arizona Arts & Cultural Alliance), it continues its mission under a new name.
The Town of Sahuarita recognizes arts and culture as important components in building strong communities. It partners with organizations like Art State Arizona for public art projects that enhance civic life in Southern Arizona. Further details about these partnerships are available at www.sahuaritaaz.gov/parks.
“By attending, you’ll support local artists and celebrate Sahuarita’s thriving cultural landscape. Join us for a day filled with art, culture, and unforgettable experiences.” according to event organizers.
For media inquiries or access to images or performer biographies related to the festival, contact kate@artstateaz.org.
