History
- The festival was created to promote community in Daphne, as well as to raise money for the Eastern Shore Chamber of Commerce. Beginning in 1989, the festival has transformed from primarily featuring antique vendors to encouraging artists and craftspeople from around the region to display their own creations. In recent years, the festival has drawn more than 130 artists for the juried show, while the festival itself brings approximately 34,000 festival-goers to the small town.
Art Show
- Before the festival begins, artists bring their best work to Daphne for the art show. Awarding prizes totaling $4,400, the festival offers 55 unique awards, including the Best of Show Overall winner who takes home a $750 prize and the Road Runner Ribbon, given to the artist who traveled the longest distance to display her creations. If you're interested in participating in the Jubilee Festival art show, visit the Festival's official website (eschamber.com) to download an application form.
Other Activities
- For children, the popular "Kids Art in the Park" is set up in Centennial Park and lets children create art and play games. In past years, art booths have provided children with materials to make beaded necklaces, fans and fish prints and to paint a fence with their creations. Daphne City Hall also constructs an entertainment stage, which includes performances from students at local dance studios and live music from local bands. Further, City Hall sets up a TV for watching college football games.
Details
- The Jubilee Festival is typically held on a Saturday and Sunday in late September, with activities lasting from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday. Admission to the festival is free, but you'll likely want to bring cash to buy a snack or a meal from a food vendor. Posters with festival artwork are also for sale at the information booth.
