Palm Beach, Florida is known for its beautiful coastal aesthetic, posh galleries, and sophisticated arts and culture scene. The locals compare it to being on vacation all the time, but for the rest of us, the Palm Beach experience requires a little more planning. If you're thinking about making the trip, consider timing your visit to coincide with one of the many exceptional art fairs which take place throughout the year in Palm Beach.We’ve been sharing information about art fairs in Florida and there are great art experiences covering a range of styles and genres in the Palm Beaches. Check out our brief cheat sheet of some of our favorites starting in Palm Beach proper.

Palm Beach Modern + Contemporary Art Fair

In previous articles we discussed many of the Florida art fairs and festivals that are casual outdoor events. In contrast, the Palm Beach Modern + Contemporary Art Fair is an indoor event with a more formal vibe, attracting art world luminaries and discerning collecting audiences.

The prestigious event presented by Art Miami bills itself as the most important contemporary show of the winter season featuring an internationally respected group of artists and galleries. The schedule includes an exclusive VIP preview benefiting the local Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens, as well as general admission events for which visitors can view and purchase works by world-renowned artists.

THE WHEN AND THE WHERE: Held each year at the Palm Beach County Convention Center, usually in late March.

MORE INFORMATION: Palm Beach Modern + Contemporary (artpbfair.com)

The Palm Beach Show

Another indoor event held at the convention center, the Palm Beach Show specializes in art, jewelry, antiques, and design. Seasoned collectors, art dealers, interior designers, and serious investors are among the regular participants, but you don't have to fall within any of those categories to enjoy the show. The variety of artworks, home decor, and custom jewelry makes for interesting window shopping and the opportunity to purchase unique finds.

THE WHEN AND THE WHERE: The Palm Beach Show is held in mid-February at the Palm Beach Convention Center.

MORE INFORMATION: The Palm Beach Show - Jewelry | Art | Antiques | Design

Downtown West Palm Beach Art Festival

Pivoting to a more casual art experience, the downtown festival is held in a lovely 72-acre outdoor space in West Palm Beach, providing a comfortable art shopping experience for festival goers. The fair features handmade works in the form of sculptures, paintings, jewelry, and ceramics by talented artists, many of whom are local to Florida.

THE WHEN AND THE WHERE: The festival occurs in early April at CityPlace on south Rosemary Avenue.

MORE INFORMATION: Annual Downtown West Palm Beach Art Festival | ArtFestival.com

Delray Affair

If you haven't been to the "most fun small town in America" yet, we think you should add a visit to Delray to your Palm Beach itinerary. Among the great things to do in Delray Beach, we highly recommend the Delray Affair.

The Delray Affair is one of the largest outdoor shows in South Florida. Art connoisseurs and casual collectors will enjoy the Delray experience, offering a unique variety of eclectic arts and crafts and one-of-a-kind products.

THE WHEN AND THE WHERE: The Delray Affair takes place each April in downtown Delray Beach.

MORE INFORMATION: Delray Affair – Greater Delray Beach Chamber of Commerce

If you’re thinking about making the trip, we hope this unofficial guide has been helpful. When it comes to Palm Beach, there are plenty of art fair options from which to choose. You can also view original art online with new art updated weekly on our website.