Festival Foundation

The Denton Festival Foundation, Inc. was formed in 1980 and became the entity that produced the first arts festival in Denton, Spring Fling, on April 19-20, 1980. The festival was held at the North Texas State Fair grounds every spring until 1989. That year it was moved to the Center for the Visual Arts and surrounding area. In 1990, Spring Fling and JazzFest merged under a new name, Denton Arts & Jazz Festival, and a new location, Denton Civic Center Park and adjacent facilities. The Denton Festival Foundation, Inc. produces the annual event in cooperation with the City of Denton, Denton Parks and Recreation, Dallas/Fort Worth American Federation of Musicians, Local 72-147, and many individual and corporate sponsors. Through sponsorships, the Festival is free. Over 350 members (Top Hands) and a Board of Trustees with representation from the City, County, Chamber, Historical Commission, Greater Denton Arts Council, Hotel/Motel Association, North Texas Area Art League, Texas Women's University, University of North Texas and several business and civic leaders help plan and execute the festival under the leadership of a Festival Director.

The festival showcases the visual and performing arts with a multi-discipline format. Professional musicians and artists, amatuer, community and school performers all share in the spotlight. Jazz music is a big part of the festival, honoring the well knonw Jazz Studies at the University of North Texas, presenting musicians who are "products" of Denton. The festival attracts visitors for the 3-day event from all over the region. It continues to grow and has been recognized statewide and regionally as one of the best arts festivals of its kind. One of the reasons for its success is that it appeals to all ages, and crosses all ethnic barriers in entertainment and attendance. Particular attention is givven to the young with hands-on creativity in the very popular Children's Art Tent. The festival boasts one of the best art shows in the region. The beautiful paintings, sculptures and special craft items become irresistable acquisitions for many who attend. The whole community gets involved. Non-profit service organizations help with special needs, and local agencies are able to raise funds for their own charitable causes.

The proceeds from the Denton Festival Foundation sponsored concession booths benefit continuing arts facilities and preservation projects. Over the last 26 years, the Festival Foundation has contributed $102,000.00 to the Center for the Visual Arts and the Campus Theatre renovation projects. Over $30,452.09 has been donated to the electrical systems, security lighting, public art, beautification of the Civic Center Park, and smaller donations totaling $67,032.08 were presented to organizations that give outstanding service during the festival weekend. Since 1980, the total is $199,484.17 for our beneficiaries and the production of the festival. The Denton Festival Foundation strives to maintain the high quality of entertainment and artistic endeavors that have become synonymous with the Denton Arts and Jazz Festival and our community.