Palatka Art Adventure to Transform Downtown Into an Interactive Outdoor Gallery

This October, Downtown Palatka will be alive with color, creativity, and community as the Arts Alliance of Putnam (AAP) presents the first-ever Palatka Art Adventure, a free, self-guided tour celebrating art, history, and local culture.

Taking place October 25–26, 2025, the Palatka Art Adventure will transform the downtown district from the Amtrak Station to the St. Johns River into a vibrant canvas featuring 20 temporary mini-murals, interactive art stations, and pop-up installations. Visitors can explore Palatka’s nationally recognized historic mural collection, enjoy hands-on art activities at the River Center, and experience art on St. Johns Avenue.

“This event is more than an art walk,” says Shelley Schenker, of the AAP. “It’s an invitation to discover Palatka’s creative spirit. Our goal is to spark joy, inspire connection, and show that the arts can be a powerful driver of tourism and community pride.”

Event Highlights:

•  20 Mini-Murals – 4’x8’ stand-alone works by local artists and student groups.

•  Hands-On Art Activities – Paint, craft, and create at the River Center.

•  Scavenger Hunt – Participants can follow a special map, with prizes for those who find every installation.

•  Art-Themed Window Displays – Downtown businesses will join the celebration with artistic storefronts.

  The event coincides with National Arts Day and Pablo Picasso’s birthday, further highlighting the importance of art in daily life. Visitors are encouraged to stroll, explore, and interact with the art while supporting downtown businesses and restaurants.

Admission is free, and maps will be available online and at key downtown locations.

Sponsors & Community Support

The Palatka Art Adventure is made possible through the generous support of Putnam County Tourist Development Council (TDC), The River Center, Home Depot, and Gathering Artists of Putnam.

The Arts Alliance of Putnam is actively seeking additional sponsors to help fund artist stipends, materials, and community prizes. Local businesses and individuals who wish to support the event can contact AAP for sponsorship opportunities at a variety of levels.

For more information, volunteer opportunities, or sponsorship details, visit www.artsallianceofputnam.org or follow @ArtsAllianceofPutnam on social media.