NAF2026 | OPEN CALL FOR PROGRAMMING AND PERFORMANCE
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For 25 years, Newark Arts Festival has not happened by accident. It has been built and sustained through care, collaboration, and a deep respect for the people and practices that shape Newark’s creative community.
This year’s theme, On Purpose, reflects how this Festival is created and what Newark Arts Council values. Every artist, performer, and program is selected with intention. Every experience is thoughtfully developed and presented with rigor. We believe in the power of the arts to connect, inspire, and transform; and we are committed to supporting that work with integrity, responsibility, and care.
From October 7 – 11, 2026, New Jersey's largest and longest-running arts festival invites local, regional, and nationally recognized artists to present bold, festival-only work that honors where we've been and shapes where we're going.
Visual artists, performing artists, and programmers are all encouraged to apply.
All applications must be submitted via Submittable. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Open Call for Programming & Performances
Newark Arts Festival is seeking innovative, unique, ideas for self-produced events, panels, pop-ups, parties and special experiences that align with our festival theme: On Purpose. We welcome individuals, collectives, and organizations to dream big and submit creative, community-centered programming proposals.
For this call, programming & performances include special events, films, panels, plays, musicals, one man shows, large showcases or presentations.
For this call, programming and performances do not include individuals who sing, dance, act, rap, recite poetry, or DJ. Individual artists should apply to the Open Call for Performing Artists instead.
Submission Guidelines:
- Priority will be given to programming with confirmed date, time and confirmed locations.
- Newark Arts Festival cannot facilitate space or funding for programs. All programmers must secure their own space for events and upload proof of collaboration, rental or confirmation of space.
- A non-refundable application fee of $10 is required per submission. Payment is made securely through Submittable.
- Financial hardship? Application Fee waivers are available by contacting festival@newarkarts.org.
- We encourage collaboration and partnerships where possible.
- Application info session (mandatory for first-time applicants): May 26, 2026, at 7pm EST. Register here.
- Submission Deadline is Sunday, June 1, 2026, at 11:59pm EST.
Need Help?
Join us on May 26, 2026, at 7PM/EST for a virtual information session. Register here.
Get support from a NAF representative, ask questions, and receive guidance on completing your application. For additional questions, contact festival@newarkarts.org.
Let’s make Newark Arts Festival 2026 our most purposeful and purpose filled festival yet!