At Newark Arts Festival 2025, we’re embracing JOY as a bold, creative force that sustains, uplifts, and sparks transformation. We invite artists to channel the power of joy to foster strength, harmony, and revolutionary change. Through art and ideas, we center JOY – the golden state of being that connects us to our humanity.
What’s your JOY?
Whether you are a visual artist expressing joy through your work, a performing artist sharing joy on stage, or a programmer cultivating joy through unique events and experiences, we invite you to apply to be part of Newark Arts Festival 2025.
Incomplete applications will not be considered. All applications must be submitted via Submittable unless otherwise noted.
Want to participate in NAF 2025?
Apply to our open calls!
Open Call:
Visual Arts
This Open Call is for visual artists eager to share their creative visions in spaces dedicated to joy, connection, and artistic expression.
Open Call:
Performing Arts
For this call, performing artists include actors, singers, musicians, dancers, poets, hosts, DJs or anyone else who performs.
Open Call:
Programming & Performances
We welcome individuals, collectives, and organizations to dream big and submit creative, community-centered programming proposals.
Open Call:
Open Spaces
Newark Arts Festival is seeking donated spaces to host exhibitions, performances, and programs.
Want to participate in NAF 2025?
Apply to our open calls!
Open Call:
Visual Arts
This Open Call is for visual artists eager to share their creative visions in spaces dedicated to joy, connection, and artistic expression.
Open Call:
Performing Arts
For this call, performing artists include actors, singers, musicians, dancers, poets, hosts, DJs or anyone else who performs.
Open Call:
Programming & Performances
We welcome individuals, collectives, and organizations to dream big and submit creative, community-centered programming proposals.
Open Call:
Open Spaces
Newark Arts Festival is seeking donated spaces to host exhibitions, performances, and programs.
Looking for Inspiration?
The energy is building for Newark Arts Festival 2025, and we’re kicking things off with a dose of pure JOY! This year, we’re embracing JOY as a bold, creative force – something that sustains us, uplifts our spirits, and has the power to spark incredible transformation.
The Newark Arts Festival team has curated a playlist that captures this vibrant theme, filled with tunes that embody the feeling of joy and its many expressions. Press play on our curated playlist and let the sounds of joy fuel your creativity!
Listen to our curated Spotify Playlist – Updated WEEKLY!
Have some questions? Read through our FAQs
INVISIBLE
Is there a fee to apply?
Yes, there is a $10 application fee to participate in the Newark Arts Festival. This small fee helps offset the administrative costs associated with processing, reviewing, and responding to the high volume of submissions we receive each year.
We’re committed to keeping the Festival accessible and artist-friendly, so this fee is intentionally kept low. It ensures we can continue offering a professional, well-organized platform for creatives while maintaining free access to the public and providing meaningful support to participating artists.
Do I have to be a Newark or New Jersey–based artist to apply?
Not at all. While we center Newark artists and creatives, the Festival is open to regional, national, and international participants. That said, we do encourage proposals that connect meaningfully to Newark’s vibrant culture and communities.
If I choose to donate, is the impact sustainable in Newark?
Yes — 100%. Your donation directly supports programs that engage local artists, youth, and communities year-round. From arts education to public art and community partnerships, your gift fuels a long-term, sustainable creative ecosystem in Newark.
Why do I need a Submittable account to apply?
Submittable is our official application platform. It helps us keep everything organized, track submissions, and communicate with artists efficiently. Creating an account is quick, secure, and ensures you stay in the loop throughout the selection process.
Is there a deadline for applying to NAF 2025?
Yes — the deadline to apply is June 1st at 11:59pm. Be sure to sign up for our newsletter and follow us on social media to stay up-to-date on deadlines, guidelines, and opportunities.
What are my perks as a sponsor for the event?
Sponsors receive year-round visibility, VIP access, exclusive event invitations, and recognition across festival materials — plus the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in Newark’s cultural renaissance. Sponsorship packages are customizable to meet your brand’s goals. Fill out the sponsorship form on our NAF landing page to receive a call back from a Newark Arts representative who can give you more information about sponsorships and partnerships.
When is the Festival and where does it take place?
The Newark Arts Festival typically takes place each October across multiple venues citywide — from galleries and museums to pop-up spaces and public art sites. Sign up for our newsletter for specific dates and locations for NAF 2025.
What can I expect as an attendee? What kinds of events are happening?
You can look forward to a citywide celebration of creativity, culture, and community.
The Newark Arts Festival features:
- Visual art exhibitions
- Live performances
- Artist talks and panels
- Film screenings
- Interactive experiences
- Family-friendly programming
- Immersive pop-ups and more
It’s truly designed for everyone — whether you’re an art enthusiast, a creative professional, or just looking for something new to explore.
register now to the event and Save the date
Be A Sponsor at Newark Arts Festival 2025
We invite you to become a sponsor of the Newark Arts Festival 2025
DONATE
Your donation to Newark Arts helps us bring our mission—“Powering the Arts to Transform Lives”—to fruition in powerful ways. The Newark Arts Festival is a prime example of how the arts fuel economic growth, foster cultural pride, and bring our community together. By supporting us, you play a vital role in shaping Newark’s future as a thriving cultural hub—join us in creating lasting impact through the transformative power of the arts!
Photos by KB Visualz Studios
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for festival news and updates