The Art League sponsors The Hungry Mother Festival each year on the third FULL weekend in July. This year’s festival will be held on Friday, July 18 – Sunday, July 20, 2025. The festival provides the funds for the Art League to support Smyth County students and their teachers, as well as other interesting cultural events that uplift our YMCA.

It was formed to provide exposure for local talent in all areas of arts and crafts. The founding members, in cooperation with the Virginia Division of State Parks, held the first annual Hungry Mother Arts and Crafts Festival in July 1974. This first successful festival grew in attendance from approximately 12,000 visitors in 1976 to nearly 20,000 in 2022. The Art League celebrated 50 years of service in July 2023.

THEIR MISSION:
The Art League of Marion is dedicated to the enjoyment and promotion of the arts including fine art, fine craft, theater, forensics, culinary arts, music and dance. The endorsement and encouragement of cultural activities in our schools are also important to the Art League. The Scholarship Program each year offers scholarships to deserving Smyth County students who will be pursuing higher education in the www.hungrymotherfestival.com

For Vendor Information please visit: https://theartleagueofmarion.org/food-vendors