Free concerts. Early entry. Great art. And the chance to keep the arts FUN-ded
By Zandra Wolfgram
Supporting the arts has its perks — and when you’re a Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation member, there are plenty of them.
Membership starts at just $75, lasts a full year from the date you join and helps MKAF champion arts and culture for all. Still need convincing? Here are 10 reasons to join the fun.
1. You keep the arts FUN-ded.
Your membership supports MKAF’s year-round mission and ArtsReach programming, helping bring meaningful arts experiences to K-12 students, people with special needs and the military community along the Emerald Coast.
2. Warrior Arts is celebrating 10 years.
In 2026, MKAF celebrates a decade of Warrior Arts, the groundbreaking ArtsReach initiative connecting active-duty military service members, veterans and their families with the transformative power of art. Now that’s a milestone worth celebrating!
3. Festival of the Arts is a masterpiece of a weekend.
More than 100 artists. Original art. Live entertainment. Demonstrations. Food. Creative fun everywhere you look. The 31st annual Festival of the Arts returns Oct. 24-25 — and admission is free.
4. Wine Walkabout is back.
Cheers to that! The popular Wine Walkabout returns Nov. 5. Members receive preferred membership rates on select MKAF events throughout the year, so grab your friends and raise a glass to the arts.
5. 10,000 Maniacs are coming to the Village.
The 2027 Concerts in the Village season kicks off April 8 with 10,000 Maniacs and continues for eight Thursday nights through May 27. Music under the stars? Yes, please.
6. Members get all eight concerts FREE.
You read that right. MKAF members receive free admission to the entire eight-week Concerts in the Village series. Pack a picnic, grab your lawn chair and make Thursday your favorite night of the week.
7. You get a head start on the fun.
Members enjoy early admission to Concerts in the Village, giving you extra time to set up your table or snag your favorite spot on the lawn.
8. There’s a membership for everyone.
With four membership categories starting at just $75, there’s an option to fit just about everyone. And because your membership is good for one full year from the date you join, there’s no need to wait for the “right” time.
9. You’re helping inspire the next generation.
Since 1995, MKAF has inspired more than 424,000 children through more than 100 schools and partner agencies. Your membership helps keep those opportunities coming.
10. You’re part of the MKAF community.
Artists, music lovers, volunteers, patrons, sponsors and members all play a part in making MKAF possible. Membership means you’re not just attending the fun — you’re helping create it.
So, what are you waiting for?
Join the fun. Enjoy the perks. Keep the arts FUN-ded.
Visit MKAF.org for current membership levels, benefits and pricing, or call (850) 650-2226.
