Coral Gables Festival of the Arts

Meh, not much to say about this art festival. Very few actual art exhibitors. Based on several empty spots, it looked like a few either never showed up, or they just bailed. The food area was packed and you could barely walk. Pickpocket heaven for sure.
We were in and out in just under an hour. Thank goodness it was free!

They actually charge an entrance fee? The South Miami Art Fair had more exhibits and it was free. We bought the VIP tickets which were supposed to include liquor but it was more like vendors trying to sell you their liquor. The entire event was dead and for good reason. It was definitely not worth it.

I know this was their first event, but let’s just say I’m glad my tickets were free. The VIP section was filled with people who actually paid to gain admission into the area. Many of them paid $ 50+ tax and some the full fee of $ 79. There were a lot of unhappy faces and all you could hear were complaints.
Here’s the thing — 2 bars, which ran out of wine within an hour of the event starting. Stone cold hors-d’oeuvres that wouldn’t reach everyone as there were one too many people and not enough food. Eventually Fratellino came and did a little catering — but that was it.
It has a lot of potential but it wasn’t well thought out or executed. I felt bad for all of those who had paid a good chunk of change expecting light bites and drinks.
You expect a lot more when in Coral Gables.

Overall there was more of a festival atmosphere on Sunday and the event looked better organized.
Volunteer crews were manning the several entrances to the festival and organizers were more prominent. While the VIP area was still not what was advertised, the patrons seemed to be enjoying themselves. Thankfully, Mother Nature cooperated in the sunshine department even though she did bring a little cold snap with her.
Live bands, and Opera singer, the big red fire truck (always popular with the kids), and of course the food all were in full swing all day. No Drones on Sunday though…
I’m keeping the review at 2 stars because quite frankly, it really wasn’t all that much to write home about.

Where should I start. The event was phenomenal! The ambience was great, the food was good, art was gorgeous, and we had a great time. They even had a live band and an opera singer on Sunday. We went on Saturday and then came back on Sunday. Can’t wait till next year.

Ok… Here it goes… went here with my bf and his mom and we had a great deal on admission through
but if you didn’t you would have to pay $ 10.00 and then it goes up if you want to do the alcohol tastings and food tasting. The artwork was nice, the alcohol tastings were ok. The best one in my opinion was the grapefruit drink from the tequila table. We got food from a vendor, it was good.
It’s a small show and we did this a few months ago at the south Miami art festival and it was free and had more art and some of the same vendors/​artists. The best part of going to this festival was receiving coupons for the Red Koi for free Pineapple Sake and Donuts when I purchase my meal, which I will be doing because I love that place as you know. It was great to see the Unilocal girls, surprised they didn’t recognize me for my great Unilocal reviews… JK ;)
Now let’s hear what you have to say…