2025 Wallowa Valley Youth Arts Festival begins April 12

By on Friday, March 7th, 2025 in More Top Stories Northeastern Oregon News

JOSEPH – (Release from the Josephy Center for Arts and Culture) Get ready for the annual Youth Arts Festival, a vibrant celebration of creativity and youth talent! The event held at the Josephy Center for Arts and Culture, running from April 12th to April 21st, will showcase an exciting variety of artwork from local youth artists, provide hands-on activities, and feature live musical performances by young performers from the area.

The festival, which was first initiated in 1989 by local photographer Doris Woempner, has become a cherished tradition in the Wallowa Valley. Over the years, the event has been shaped by dedicated community supporters including Joan Madsen, Leah Johnson, Will Roundy, and Maria Weer. 

The Wallowa Valley Arts Council is proud to sponsor this annual event and applauds the many volunteers who work tirelessly to make it all possible. With over 200 entries last year, the Youth Arts Festival serves as a powerful testament to the incredible creativity and spirit of our community’s young artists. The festival will include awards ribbons, a variety of engaging activities, and fun opportunities for everyone to get involved. It promises to be a fun-filled experience for all ages!

Calling All Youth Performers!


Do you love to sing, play an instrument, recite poetry, or perform? Here’s your chance to shine! The festival will feature a Youth Open Mic Performance on Saturday, April 12th, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM.

Step up to the mic and share your talent with a supportive audience! Whether you want to perform solo or with friends, express yourself through music, spoken word, comedy, dance, or any other form of creative performance. No experience required! This is a great opportunity to showcase your talent and have fun.

Sign-Up for Open Mic:


Sign-up will begin at 12:00 PM on April 12th at the Josephy Center, first come, first served. Spots are limited, so make sure to sign up early!

Bring your family and friends to cheer you on and enjoy the incredible creativity that the Youth Arts Festival offers. This will be an unforgettable afternoon of youthful energy and artistic expression!

Volunteers Needed:


We are also seeking volunteers to help with the event! We will need assistance with sorting and hanging artwork on April 9th and 10th. With over 200 entries expected, we could really use some extra hands! If you are available to volunteer, please reach out to Dionne Vali at programs@josephy.org or call 541-432-0505×2. We appreciate your support!

Event Details:

  • Exhibit Dates: April 12th – April 21st
  • Art Drop-Off: Tuesday, April 8th, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM
  • Opening Reception: Saturday, April 12th, from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM
  • Art Pick-Up:  Monday, April 21st, from 2:00PM to 4:00PM

Here’s the link to the website:  https://josephy.org/event/wvyaf2025/

Don’t miss out! Come celebrate art, music, and the incredible talents of our community’s young creatives!