These adventures will guide you to discovering the many art forms that are woven into the fabric of the Park City-Summit County community everywhere you look (and in places you might not think to look, too!)

Art in a barn

On the east side of Summit County, you’ll find Oakley’s picturesque Red Barn. And on July 12-13, that’s the home of the Summit Arts Showcase. Local artists display their artwork and some even do live demos. With a couple dozen local artists, the event really lets you connect with the makers and get up close to Summit County’s art scene. And of course, there will be food and music along with the artwork. After all, how can you fully appreciate the art on an empty stomach? 

The featured artists work in a variety of mediums, including ceramics, mixed media, jewelry, watercolor and more. Come and browse some great art – you might find a piece that was made just for you.

See me strollin’

Downtown Park City is a hotbed for art, with dozens of galleries found on and near Main Street. While there’s no bad time for some art appreciation, we recommend hitting the galleries on the last Friday of every month from 6-9 p.m. On those evenings, 18 participating galleries open their doors for visitors to admire their art installations. Oh, and did we mention they provide light refreshments? 

You’ll be able to check out work from local, national and international artists. From award-winning art to new discoveries, there’s plenty to admire. The Gallery Stroll is a fun (and free!) way to explore downtown Park City and take advantage of the beautiful summer weather in the mountains. Here’s a map of the participating galleries. Happy strolling!

50 and Festive

Kimball Art Center is a hub for all things art and art education in Park City – and every year they host a celebration that’s made quite a name for itself. As one of the top-ranked art festivals in the country, it’s also the Center’s largest fundraiser. Celebrate 50 years of the Kimball Arts Festival with three days of art, activities, and creativity – all for a great cause. Go full glam at a formal gala featuring live and silent auctions, hit up special exhibition openings (plus refreshments, of course) at nearby participating galleries, and enjoy over 30 live musical acts across three stages.  

Kimball Art Center’s mission is to provide arts access and education to everyone – including budding artists. The Studio on Main portion of the Festival is designed for teens 13+ and adults. For just $5, you can do activities like create a macramé wall hanging, bind a travel journal, create a wire sculpture or sculpt a clay bowl. For younger makers, the Kids Art Area provides the chance to make windcatchers, clay beads and felt figures. Get in touch with your creative side, while supporting a great local cause. 

The Kimball Arts Festival is August 2-4, 2019 in downtown Park City, Utah.

Don’t Miss – Festival After Dark: 50 years later, the festival has grown so popular that the celebration has spread around town. At Festival After Dark, see Aiko at OP Rockwell, a favorite among locals for live music and great cocktails (August 3). Or grab a ticket to the Deer Valley Music Festival, featuring the Utah Symphony rocking some of the greatest hits of the 70s and 80s (August 3). Plus, there’s a free Sundance screening at City Park (August 4).

Get Silly

Who doesn’t want to head to a giant block party every Sunday this summer? We’re talking live music, performers, artwork, and of course delicious food vendors. Every Sunday from June 2 to September 22 (except August 4, 11, and 18), Park Silly Sunday Market turns Main Street into a giant street festival and open-air market. Local makers create art on the spot, and have their art available for sale. Browse everything from spray paint to ceramics to original prints.  

Park Silly is family and dog friendly – so grab the whole gang and head to Main Street. Make sure to bring cash for vendors, and be aware that they change every week. You’ll definitely find something tasty, and maybe even come away with a piece of art to remind you of your silly Sunday.

Sculpture chase

William J. Kranstover is a local artist and art teacher with roots in both Wisconsin and Australia. He has various sculptures dotted across Summit County and the abstract works are fun to chase down as you explore the area. One of his more well-known pieces is the Olympic Torch sculpture, a commissioned metalwork to commemorate the 2002 Olympics which were hosted by Salt Lake City. You can find it on Kearns Blvd. in Park City. At the bottom of Main Street, you can see “The Flight of the Pipes” and on your way out of town, stop by Temple Har Shalom to see “The Crane.” You can also visit his studio in Peoa to see some of his paintings and works in progress.

Don’t Miss: Art on the Trail The Historic Rail Trail runs 28 miles from Park City to Echo Reservoir. Among the wildflowers, animals and mountain scenery, you’ll also find many Kranstover pieces along the trail. Grab a bike, some supportive shoes, or book a horse guide to explore all or sections of the trail.

Oh, rally?

Ever heard of a Monster Drawing Rally? Trust us, you’re missing out. Every year, the Kimball Art Center puts on a live drawing event that lets attendees interact with art like never before. Here’s how it works: Throughout the evening, local artists will take 50-minute shifts drawing and making art – as spectators watch in real time. By the end of the rally, the sketches will become finished mixed media artwork featuring collage, watercolor, acrylic, graphite and more. The finished drawings are immediately available for purchase, so it’s a great way to support local art and take home a one-of-a-kind piece.  

The Rally offers the chance to observe the creative process firsthand and mingle with the local art crowd. There is music, food, and a cash bar – so basically everything you need for a fantastic night. The rally was on June 6 from 6-9 pm. If you missed it this year, don’t worry this great event will return again next year!

Vive el arte!

The Latino culture is a huge – and lively – part of life in Park City. About 25 percent of residents are from Latin America, and every year the Latino Arts Festival celebrates their heritage and traditions. It’s always a serious and free fiesta on the Library Field in Park City in June.

Latino artists of all kinds have their work for sale and display - everything from portraits to fabric art to ceramics and all with an authentic Latino vibe. There is cultural music, dance performances, craft demonstrations, and Latin American food. (Even if you’re not an art buff, who can resist Latino cooking?)

IF YOU DECIDE TO STAY

In addition to getting the guaranteed lowest rates, booking your lodging here is another way to help sustain art in our local community. A portion of your booking goes back to the Park City Summit County Arts Council.

EXPLORE ART ADVENTURES

IN PARK CITY & SUMMIT COUNTY

While we’re well-known as a mecca for mountain recreation, there are boundless opportunities to enjoy art, music, film, theater and other cultural events in Park City and Summit County.