
A Celebration of Art and Community
Art in the Pass is an annual fine arts festival set against the stunning backdrop of War Memorial Park in Pass Christian, Mississippi, under the shade of ancient oaks and overlooking the Mississippi Sound. This two-day event showcases around 100 talented artists from across the region, drawing approximately 10,000 visitors from Pensacola to Baton Rouge and beyond. Known for its Southern hospitality, vibrant art scene, and breathtaking coastal views, the festival is a highlight of the Gulf Coast’s cultural calendar.
Visitors can explore incredible art displays, hear from great local entertainers, and enjoy the excitement of the high school student art competition. The festival also is held in conjunction with the Celebrate the Gulf Marine Education Festival, a free, family-friendly event promoting environmental awareness and coastal conservation.
Beyond celebrating the arts, Art in the Pass is deeply committed to giving back to the community. Funds raised through sponsorships and festival proceeds directly support local students and schools. The event provides scholarships to rising high school seniors pursuing art education and significant grants for art supplies to area high schools, the Pass Christian School District, and the Pass Christian Boys and Girls Club. In 2025 alone, nearly $40,000 was contributed in scholarships, grants, and awards – an incredible testament to the generosity of sponsors and visitors who make this event possible.
April 11 – 12, 2026
10AM to 5PM
Pass Christian WAR Memorial park
Visitor
Experience the Art, Music, and Coastal Charm!
Support
Support the Arts, Strengthen the Community!
Participate
Showcase Your Art at the Gulf Coast’s Premier Festival!
Our Business Sponsors
Thanks to Individual Sponsors
Art in the Pass would not be possible without the generous support of our individual sponsors. Your contributions help fund artist awards, student scholarships, community grants, and the many details that make the festival a success year after year. Thank you for investing in local art, education, and the creative spirit of Pass Christian.
Kay Antis
Linda & Gerald Barnes
Maureen & Jacque Beary
Charlotte and Ronald Bernadas
Laurie & Scott Bradford
Carolyn & Michael Christovich
Mona & David Cobb
Martha & David Cordell
FJ & Bob Cutting
Sally & Don DeMetz
Wendy & Tony Diaz del Valle
Linda & Edward Denechaud
Sandy & Richard Douglass
Deborah & Barry Dreyfus
Laura & Steve Ethridge
Carla J. Evers
Anita Giani
Donna Boue & Michelle Gibbs
Sheryl & Brick Gilliland
Susan & Charlie Grey
Peggy Groves
Rheta & Hines Hall
Bill & Diann Hightower
Janet & Larry Jones
Michele & Frank Lopiccolo
Carroll & Dale Mathews
Fay & Don Mathison
Susan & Frank McClellan
Peggy DeMetz & Mark Oehmke
Karen & Tom Pritchard
Charla & Porter Pryor
Pattie & Mike Ryan
Anna & Steve Sabree
Karen & David Sawyer
Nell & Frank Schmidt
Wynn & Bill Seemann
Julianne Huber & William Sewell
Patty Demetz & Gary Smith
Betty Sparkman
Aimee & Mark Tramontana
Christie & Lee Voulters
Sydney & Steve Wall
Megan Doscher & Steven Weatherly
Elizabeth Wittmann
Alane & Alan Young
Festival Activities
The event offers a dynamic mix of experiences, including live music from local bands, a diverse selection of food vendors, and interactive activities for all ages.


Our Team
We extend our deepest gratitude to the dedicated volunteers and the City of Pass Christian’s Beautification, Police, Public Works, and Fire Departments. Your unwavering support and hard work are the backbone of Art in the Pass, making each festival a memorable experience for all.
2025 Board Members
Betty Sparkman (Chair)
Sheryl Baltar
Linda Barnes
Claire Bosch
Donna Boue
Laurie Bradford
Jen Cumbest (MS Department of Marine Resources)
FJ Cutting
Robert Cutting
Richard Douglass
Sandra Douglass
Anita Giani (Pass Christian Main Street)
Chris Goulet
Sandra Lobrano
Marie Lamb
Terie Marcello
Fay Mathison
Charla Pryor
Susan Putnam (City of Pass Christian)
Aimee Tramontana
Past Event Chairs
2015, 2016, 2017 – FJ Cutting
2013, 2014 – Anita Giani
2011, 2012 – Jerald Williams
2008, 2009, 2010 – Julie & Richard O’Briant
2004, 2005, 2007 – Virgil & Margaret Harris
2004, 2005 – Virgil & Gretchen Harris
2003 – Kathie Short
2001 – Terry Scott
1999, 2000 – Helen St Paul
1995 to 1998 – Malee Hearin