Helper Arts Festival

The Helper Arts Festival is a multi-day celebration of creativity, culture, and community in Carbon County, Utah. Taking place August 20–23, 2026, the event fills the town of Helper with art, live music, plein aire painting, gallery strolls, a classic car show, local vendors, theater performances, film screenings, spoken word, and a community breakfast fundraiser.

Programming includes:
- Live music from regional and national artists across multiple stages
- Plein aire painting and competitions
- Art exhibits and the Art Garden
- Classic and custom car show on Main Street
- Artisan goods, crafts, and food from local and regional vendors
- Theatre performances, including "The Importance of Being Earnest"
- Films such as "Code For The People," "Quantum Flux," and "Something To Entertain You"
- Carbon Shortcuts community art and film initiative
- Family-friendly activities and a breakfast fundraiser

Daily highlights:
- Thursday: Gallery stroll, music on Main Street, theater at the Rio Theatre, and a film screening at the Rio Theatre.
- Friday: Vendors open, spoken word at Rio Theatre, multiple music performances on the Main Stage, theatre, art reception, and film at Rio Theatre.
- Saturday: Vendors, art competitions, Carbon Shortcuts Film Festival, car show announcement, music performances, theater, and a community breakfast at River Parkway Pavilion.
- Sunday: Vendors, more live music, and breakfast fundraiser.

Events take place at various venues in Helper, including Main Street, Main Stage, Rio Theatre, and River Parkway Pavilion.

The festival is open to all ages. Some activities may have entry fees (for example, car show $20 to enter).