Kimball Arts Festival History

A group of local Park City artists came together in 1969 to launch an open-air arts festival on historic Main Street. Their aim was to imbue Park City – already a bustling ski resort during the winter – with cultural offerings in the summer months. Inspired by the artists’ creative energy, local philanthropist Bill Kimball decided to expand upon their efforts by creating Kimball Art Center, a permanent home for the visual arts in Park City.

Under guidance and management of Kimball Art Center and a longstanding partnership with Park City Municipal Corporation, the Park City Kimball Arts Festival – true to the spirit of its founders in the summer of 1969 – has established itself as one of Utah’s leading cultural events, attracting thousands visitors annually, and garnering national attention for the artists whose works are displayed.