Mark your calendar for Saturday, September 26th, 2026, 11AM - 6PM!
Join us in the heart of Downtown San Mateo for a fun day-long celebration of art, music, dance, poetry, food, and culture! From live bands and dazzling cultural performances to interactive kids’ activities, LIVE mural painting competitions, artists selling original handcrafted artworks, and poetry open mic, the September Arts & Culture Fest has something for everyone — and it’s completely FREE to attend.
Applications for artist vendors and performing artists will be accepted June 15 - July 13, 2026, 5:00 PM PST, and reviewed and accepted on a first come, first served basis.
Artist Vendors:
Calling all painters, printers, photographers, ceramicists, sculptors, jewelers, multi-media, fiber or resin artists, etc.! Open to up to 30 Bay Area artists with a preference to artists living or working in San Mateo County.
The cost is $130 for one artist, or a shared booth is $75 per artist.
Please note: Items in the moderate price range sell best, however many artists report being contacted after the event for studio visits and sales for more expensive artwork.
To apply, click here.
Performing Artists:
Calling all dancers, musicians, and actors! Open to Bay Area performing artists with a preference to artists/organizations located or providing programs in San Mateo County. Like last year, we will have one small stagefor groups up to 15 performers and the maximum showtime is 20 minutes. Artists will be compensated for their time. Poets will have a separate space with open mic signups coming soon.
To apply, click here.
Applications for the poetry open mic and Mural Madness will be coming soon!
Want to Be Part of the Fest?
- I’m interested in a Vendor Booth, click here.
- Sponsor the Event, click here.
- Volunteer with Us, click here.
The September Arts & Culture Fest is presented by the San Mateo Area Chamber of Commerce, San Mateo County Office of Arts and Culture, and Downtown San Mateo Association.
Follow the Fest:
Stay up to date on performers, artists, murals, and special announcements:
👉 @smc_artsandculture
👉 @sanmateochamber
👉 @downtownsanmateo