The 2025 Festival of Arts season may be over, but its impact continues to be felt throughout the community. Through expanded youth education programs, partnerships with local schools and nonprofits, veteran outreach, and initiatives supporting inclusion and accessibility, the Festival of Arts of Laguna Beach strengthened its role as a vibrant hub for artistic expression, creativity, and connection across Southern California.
“Art has the power to connect, heal, and inspire,” said Festival of Arts President David Perry. “We’re incredibly proud of how this year’s programs opened doors and built bridges within our community. From children discovering painting for the first time, veterans reconnecting at the Pageant, or residents from organizations like Glennwood House joining our team, each experience reflected what the Festival stands for: making the arts accessible to everyone.”
Among the summer’s many highlights was the Festival’s collaboration with Glennwood House, a Laguna Beach nonprofit that provides housing and support for adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities. Through this partnership, residents received complimentary season-long access to the art show. In addition, four Glennwood residents gained valuable on-site work experience—two in the operations department and two in the gift shop—providing an opportunity to build skills, gain confidence, and engage more fully with the community.
“We are so grateful to the Festival of Arts Board of Directors and team for creating this incredible pilot program,” shared Faith Manners, CEO of Glennwood House. “From Human Resources to department managers, everyone welcomed our residents with genuine enthusiasm and provided hands-on training that built confidence and pride. For many, these were their first employment experiences, and the Festival team’s support made all the difference.”
“Everyone who participated this summer was so proud to be part of the Festival,” added Rachel Landers, VP of Programs at Glennwood House. “They loved meeting new people, helping with daily activities, and engaging with visitors. Each resident came away with new skills, friendships, and a deep sense of belonging. They’re already eager to return next year.”
The Festival’s Masters at Giving program also created meaningful opportunities for connection by providing complimentary Pageant of the Masters tickets to organizations including the American Legion Veterans, South County Outreach, OC Fire Authority, the Mindful Warrior Project, local schools, and senior centers. Among those who attended was a group from American Legion Post 277 in Placentia, whose members and families joined for the Festival’s special Veterans and Camp Pendleton Military Night performance.
“Events like these strengthen the bonds within our veteran community and remind us of the importance of the work we do together,” shared Laurie Arroyo, American Legion Community Liaison, American Legion Post 277. “Having four of our new board members in attendance made this event even more meaningful. It gave them the chance to connect with fellow veterans, experience the support of the community firsthand, and see the impact of what we do. The Festival’s recognition and support of our veterans means the world to us.”
In support of arts education within the community, the Festival welcomed fifth graders from the Laguna Beach Unified School District last spring, where students received a behind-the-scenes look at the Pageant of the Masters—touring the stage, costume, and scenic departments, and meeting artists and technicians who shared how teamwork brings each performance to life. “This was an incredible opportunity for our fifth graders,” said Sarah Wolsey, K–5 Visual and Performing Arts Teacher on Special Assignment at Top of the World Elementary. “Learning from the talented artists and technicians was both educational and inspiring. It gave our students a deeper appreciation for the arts and the hard work that goes into making each performance come to life. It was an experience they will remember for years to come.”
This summer, the Festival continued its dedication to inspiring young artists by welcoming fifty-five AP and Honors art students from Santa Margarita Catholic High School. Led by former exhibitor and now art teacher Pam Toomey, the students met with Festival artists Kevin Avery, Steve Bjorkman, Eric Gerdau, Cliff Wassman, Larry Marley, Ray Brown, and Isabelle Alessandra before participating in a Q&A session later featured on the school’s morning news program.
Furthering its investment in arts education, a $20,000 grant from the Al & Jane Nahmad Family Foundation (AJNFF) made it possible for 100 children from the Laguna Beach Boys & Girls Club to experience the Ultimate Festival Art Experience. Participants enjoyed a private art tour, a ceramic glazing class, and a hands-on lesson in the firing process.
Partnerships like these exemplify how the Festival connects with local schools and organizations to foster a love of the arts at every age and stage of learning. That same spirit of inclusion extended beyond the classroom this year, as the Festival partnered with Jewish Family Services of the Center for Jewish Care, an organization based in San Diego that provides support to help Holocaust survivors maintain health, independence, and connection. This summer, the Festival hosted approximately 30 survivors for a private event and docent-led tour of the art exhibit, providing them with a special day of community and culture.
From nurturing creativity in youth to providing meaningful experiences for seniors, the Festival’s community-focused initiatives continued throughout the season. The long-standing Junior Art Exhibit featured work by over 300 students (PK–12) selected from thousands of submissions from schools throughout Orange County and has been a beloved part of the Festival since 1947. Returning this year was the Emerging Artists Exhibit, showcasing works by talented students from Laguna College of Art + Design (LCAD) and offering a platform for the region’s next generation of professional artists. The Festival also collected clothing donations for Working Wardrobes during the Festival Runway Fashion Show, supporting individuals as they re-enter the workforce in Orange County.
“As we look back on the 2025 season, we’re reminded that the Festival is more than an art show—it’s a place where communities, cultures, and generations come together,” added Sharbie Higuchi, Director of Marketing & PR for the Festival of Arts. “We’re proud of the meaningful connections created this year and look forward to building upon that momentum in 2026.”
With the season of giving upon us and Giving Tuesday on the horizon, the Festival of Arts invites the community to give back and help continue the programs that make a difference year-round—from youth art education and scholarships to accessibility initiatives, community partnerships, and veteran outreach. Every contribution helps the Festival foster creativity, opportunity, and inclusion for people of all ages and abilities.
Those wishing to support the arts and the Festival’s mission are encouraged to make a donation to help sustain these impactful initiatives and ensure that the Festival of Arts continues to thrive for years to come. Donations can be made at foapom.com/supportnow.