2026 On the Trail of Art

On the Trail of Art is a free, outdoor arts festival presented by Butternut Valley Alliance and held this year in General Jacob Morris State Forest. The event transforms the forest into an immersive art experience, featuring original works by professional artists living in the Butternut Valley alongside artwork by local students.

• Saturday, June 13, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

• Sunday, June 14, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

For each festival, BVA creates 26 temporary “galleries” throughout the state forest, inviting visitors to explore art at their own pace along wooded trails. Original student work is represented by artists from four Valley school districts—Morris, Gilbertsville–Mount Upton, Laurens, and Edmeston—highlighting the creativity of young artists across the region.

In addition to the art trail, the weekend includes live music, strolling performance artists, plein air painters, art demonstrations, and hands-on participatory art experiences for all ages. Dozens of professional artists contribute work each year, making the festival a true celebration of the Valley’s creative community.

On the Trail of Art is part of the Otsego Outdoors Spring Octet Challenge and brings together two of the Butternut Valley’s greatest treasures: its vibrant arts community and its stunning natural landscape. As the DEC-appointed steward of General Jacob Morris State Forest, BVA is proud to host the 2026 festival at this site. The event location rotates each year, offering a fresh setting and experience for returning visitors.