If there’s one event at Downtown Disney I look forward to every year, it’s the very popular and long running Festival of the Masters. Unfortunately, due to construction of Disney Springs, Disney has decided to cancel the event for 2014.
This November 7-9th would have marked the 39th time the event was held at Walt Disney World. Over the year’s the event has become very prestigious for artists to get accepted to and attracted skilled photographers, sculptors, and painters among other artists from across the country. Those who had already sent in their payment for this year, will have their fees refunded.
In a statement a Disney representative said:
“We appreciate the enthusiastic support we’ve received from the arts community, both locally and nationally, which has contributed to the long-running success of the Festival. Walt Disney World Resort is a strong supporter of the arts and we remain committed to nurturing the arts.
We ask for your patience and understanding during this time of growth and look forward to building new memories with you at Disney Springs.”
I’m sure Disney looked into porting the event to another location, but there just aren’t many areas at Walt Disney World capable of holding the parking required for an event like this. Maybe Swan & Dolphin will step up with a mini-art festival or Celebration can do something for guests who have already booked their vacation with attending the festival in mind.
Are you disappointed as I that the festival has been canceled this year?
Previously: Downtown Disney August 2014 Construction Update.
I do find it disappointing that the festival was canceled this year. It’s always a bummer when a longstanding event goes away. I’m also a little worried that the event will not come back following the completion of Disney Springs, much like what happened to DCA’s Food & Wine Festival.
Of course you have to be disappointed, but I completely understand. If you have been out to DT Disney lately, many of the places the artist setup are now walled off for the construction and parking is still difficult. To me it was a sensible decision.
John, I’m really disappointed about this. I look forward to this every year. I hope they’re not cancelling this permanently!
Disney obviously had no thought for the artists who had already long made their plans,secured their hotels and will waste a good fall sales weekend at some other event. or for those many from out of state a planned Florida trip to do the show. Ugh!
Comments are closed.