Tephra ICA Arts Festival 2026: 35th Anniversary Event Coming To Reston Town Center

RESTON, VA— The Tephra Institute of Contemporary Art will host its 35th annual arts festival at Reston Town Center on May 16 and 17, featuring 200 artists and new award categories.

The juried outdoor event, known locally as "the Reston Show," returns following a 2025 season that saw more than 40,000 attendees. This year’s program includes the introduction of the Judith Forst People’s Choice Award, named for the festival’s founder, and a special recognition of American craft traditions to coincide with the 250th anniversary of the United States.

“We are so excited to welcome artists to the 35th Tephra ICA Arts Festival," said Jonell Logan, executive director and curator at Tephra ICA. "Reston was founded with the belief that the arts are an essential component of a well-rounded life. The Festival is a great opportunity to support this philosophy, which is at the core of our mission, with our local and extended communities. Come, stay, explore, and collect some amazing art."

Tephra ICA, a non-profit institution based in Reston, organizes the event to connect Northern Virginia with the broader contemporary art world. Capital One Hall is the title sponsor for the 2026 edition.

In addition to artist booths, the weekend will feature live glass-blowing demonstrations by the Workhouse Arts Center Mobile Glass Studio and performances by the PearsonWidrig DanceTheater.

Organizers said garage parking at Reston Town Center will be free for the duration of the festival. Visitors using public transportation can access the site via the Silver Line at the Reston Town Center Metro station.

Chronological List of Events

Saturday, May 16

• 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.: Artist booths open to the public.
• 12 – 4 p.m.: Glass blowing demonstrations and Art Park interactive projects at Reston Town Square Park.
• 1 p.m. & 3 p.m.: PearsonWidrig DanceTheater performances at Reston Town Square Park.
• 7:30 p.m.: Reston Concerts on the Town at the Reston Town Center Pavilion, featuring extended Sip & Stroll hours.

Sunday, May 17

• 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.: Artist booths open to the public.
• 11 a.m. & 2 p.m.: Guided tours of the 12 award-winning artists, departing from the Reston Town Center Pavilion.
• 12 - 4 p.m.: Glass blowing demonstrations and Art Park interactive projects at Reston Town Square Park.
• 1 p.m. & 3 p.m.: PearsonWidrig DanceTheater performances at Reston Town Square Park.