The 20th Anniversary of The Woodlands Waterway Arts Festival, produced by The Woodlands Arts Council (TWAC), drew an enthusiastic crowd of 20,000 attendees over the weekend, making it one of the most successful years for this nationally acclaimed event. It has been voted #1 Best Event in The Woodlands for 14 years in a row by Woodlands Online, #4 Best Art Festival in the Nation by USA TODAY'S Readers' Choice, #6 in Art Sales by Art Fair Sourcebook, and the festival continues to grow in both prestige and impact. With perfect weather and a vibrant spirit of celebration, the event brought together the community for a truly unforgettable experience.

The camera focuses on the VIP area of the WWAF, featuring several tables shaded by colorful umbrellas or white pop-up tents. This area is right along the Waterway. The day is bright and sunny without a cloud in the sky. A few office buildings are visible in the distance.

The entrance of Town Green Park and The Woodlands Waterway Arts Festival 2025 features two red-brick pillars topped with large metal pinecones. Four male volunteers smiling at the camera in front of the ticket booth.

Festival goers explored art from over 200 juried artists, enjoyed nearly 40 live performances, and engaged with hands-on activities for all ages. More than 500 dedicated volunteers came together to uplift this three-day affair, weaving their efforts into a remarkable milestone year. Their collective enthusiasm and commitment greatly contributed to a smooth and joyful event.

“We’re grateful for the artists, volunteers, sponsors, and attendees who made this special anniversary one to remember. An event of this scale and impact would not be possible without their participation and support,” said Jenny Carattini-Wright, TWAC’s Executive Director & CEO. “This year was a true reflection of our mission to Make Art Matter in our community, and we look forward to many more successful events in the future.”

A man in a white T-shirt and gray shorts smiles at the camera. He has one hand on his hip, the other holding a blue ribbon out in front of him. Behind him are two large landscape paintings, one of a field of wildflowers and the other of wetlands.

LOOKING AHEAD

As The Woodlands Arts Council looks ahead, planning is already underway for next year’s festival, set for April 10–12, 2026. The 2026 Featured Artist is Taman VanScoy, a California-based painter whose dreamlike landscapes evoke a desired sense of peaceful contemplation and serenity. With over two decades of experience on the national art show circuit, his award-winning paintings have captivated collectors nationwide. His work is sure to engage the festival’s attendees.

THE IMPACT

Proceeds from the festival directly support The Woodlands Arts Council’s year-round programming, including the Student Art Scholarship and Microgrants Programs, as well as Public Art Initiatives that enrich the cultural landscape of The Woodlands and Montgomery County. In 20 years, TWAC has awarded more than $1.7 million to students, teachers, schools, and organizations.