From free concerts under the stars to a milestone year for Warrior Arts, MKAF membership makes supporting the arts rewarding — and fun
Supporting the arts has its perks. Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation (MKAF) members not only help champion access to the arts for all in Northwest Florida, they also enjoy a year of music, art, special events and member benefits.
Since 1995, MKAF has worked to make the arts accessible through its presenting programs and ArtsReach initiatives serving K-12 students, people with special needs, active-duty military service members and veterans. Membership provides vital support for that mission while connecting members to some of the Emerald Coast’s favorite cultural events.
With membership starting at just $75 and four membership categories offering something for everyone, becoming a member is an easy way to support the arts — and enjoy them. Best of all, membership is valid for one full year from the date you join.
Need a few more reasons? Here are 10.
1. Membership keeps the arts FUN-ded.
It’s more than a catchy phrase. Membership helps fund MKAF’s year-round mission and ArtsReach programming, bringing meaningful arts experiences to people throughout Northwest Florida. Members can feel good knowing their support helps make art, music and creativity accessible to more people.
2. Warrior Arts is celebrating 10 years.
In 2026, MKAF marks the 10th anniversary of Warrior Arts, a groundbreaking ArtsReach initiative that connects active-duty military service members, veterans and their families with the transformative power of art. Through creative experiences, including its popular Zentangle classes, Warrior Arts provides opportunities for expression, connection and healing. Becoming a member is a meaningful way to help MKAF continue this important work
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3. Festival of the Arts is a masterpiece of a weekend.
Mark the calendar for Oct. 24-25, when MKAF’s 31st annual Festival of the Arts fills the Mattie Kelly Cultural Arts Village with more than 100 artists, original artwork, live entertainment, artist demonstrations, children’s activities, food and plenty of creative energy. Admission is free.
4. Wine Walkabout is back by popular demand.
Cheers to that! MKAF’s Wine Walkabout returns Nov. 5, 2026. Members receive preferred membership rates on select MKAF events throughout the year, making membership an excellent excuse to gather friends and raise a glass to the arts.
5. 10,000 Maniacs will get the 2027 Concerts in the Village season started.
MKAF’s popular Concerts in the Village returns April 8, 2027, with 10,000 Maniacs kicking off another season of music under the stars. The eight-week series continues through May 27 at the Mattie Kelly Cultural Arts Village in Destin.
6. Members get the entire eight-week Concerts in the Village series FREE.
This perk alone makes membership music to your ears. MKAF members receive free admission to all eight concerts in the 2027 Concerts in the Village series. Pack a picnic, grab a blanket or lawn chair and settle in for eight Thursday nights of live music under the stars at one of the Emerald Coast’s favorite outdoor venues.
7. Members get a head start on the fun.
Why wait in line when you can get in early? MKAF members enjoy early admission to Concerts in the Village, giving them extra time to set up their VIP table or claim a prime spot on the lawn before the crowd arrives.
8. There’s a membership for everyone.
With four membership categories and annual membership starting at just $75, supporters can choose the level that works best for them. Membership is valid for one year from the date of joining, so there’s never a bad time to become part of the MKAF family. Visit MKAF.org for current membership levels, pricing and benefits.
9. Your membership supports the next generation of art lovers.
Through ArtsReach, MKAF brings arts education and cultural experiences to K-12 students, people with special needs and the military community. Since its inception, MKAF has inspired more than 424,000 children in more than 100 schools and partner agencies.
10. You become part of the MKAF community.
At its heart, membership is about belonging. Members, volunteers, artists, patrons and sponsors make it possible for MKAF to present live music, visual arts and community outreach year after year. Supporting MKAF is a win-win: You support a great cause while enjoying some pretty amazing benefits along the way.
Ready to join the fun? Visit MKAF.org for current membership levels, benefits and pricing, or call (850) 650-2226.
ABOUT MATTIE KELLY ARTS FOUNDATION
Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation (MKAF) is a nonprofit arts organization with a mission to champion arts and culture for all. Since its inception in 1995, MKAF has inspired more than 424,000 children in more than 100 schools and partner agencies. Through its community education initiative ArtsReach, dynamic programming serves K-12 students, people with special needs and the military community along the Emerald Coast. As a presenting organization, MKAF’s Concerts in the Village series showcases performing artists and bands each spring, while more than 100 artists convene in Destin each fall for the Festival of the Arts, one of the preeminent arts festivals along the Gulf Coast.
