Our Story
Mill Valley Fall Arts Festival proceeds benefit the Emerging Artist Scholarship Fund.

History
The Mill Valley Fall Arts Festival began as The Arts Festival in 1957 with a group of artists exhibiting their works in downtown store windows. As participation increased, the fledgling festival was held in Lytton Square. In 1962, the festival was incorporated, became an independent nonprofit organization and officially changed its name to The Mill Valley Fall Arts Festival and moved to its present site at historic Old Mill Park.

Tradition
This community event reflects the spirit of Mill Valley and its purpose of supporting established independent artists and emerging student artists. Scores of Festival volunteers staff the gates and the Poster, T-Shirt and information booths during this annual two-day event. Much needed support comes from all areas of our community including: in-kind services and donations from the food and beverage providers who partner with Mill Valley nonprofit service organizations. Entertainment by fabulous Bay Area performers at the main and children's stages is included with the gate charge. Children’s craft activities are supported by local high school student artists and youth organizations.

The Festival Committee works diligently to continue our tradition of:

  • Encouraging and fostering public education in the awareness and appreciation of fine arts and crafts.
  • Providing an open and continuing dialogue between the established artist and the public.
  • Creating a foundation upon which local service organizations are able to raise a large portion of their operating budgets.
  • Providing an important showcase for new and emerging artists.
  • Presenting a high quality family friendly event.

Park Improvement
Over the years, the Festival has contributed funds towards the improvement of Old Mill Park. Among its projects are the seating area around the stage, the cement ramp in the lower park, the restrooms, and the stage. The Festival is also responsible to the City of Mill Valley for the condition of the park. Debris left by exhibitors and visitors alike is cleaned up Monday morning by Festival volunteers working side by side with energetic Old Mill School students. Thank you to the City of Mill Valley for your continued support!


Mill Valley Fall Arts Festival Committee. Click to visit our photo album.

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2012 Mill Valley Fall Arts Festival Emerging Artist Scholarships: 4 Tam High Seniors
1st place: Riley Sykes
2nd place: Rowan Walton
3rd place: Emily Low Schwenk


Michael Osborne Graphic Design Scholarship awarded to Lucas Waldburger


President
Sarah Suloff

Vice President
Robin Doody

Treasurer
Nedda Leikin

Secretary
Jane Richmond

Executive Director
Steve Bajor

Artist Liaison and Publicity
Erma Murphy

Board Members
Lizi Cruz
Tom Killian
Lynne Klein
Thomas Reodoc
Sarah Shriver

Additional Committee Members
Jody Atherton
Trez Bennett
Michael Chaille
Edwin DeShazo
Cathe Howe
Mick Laska
Barbara Lawrence
Karen Meadows
Harald Nordvold
Erin Riley
Lisa Ronay
Marsha Silberstein
Loren Soderberg
Peter Zajda

Advisory Board
Roy Forest
Lucy Mercer