If you’ve ever wondered where to find the best arts experiences in Southwest Florida, you’re in the right place.
United Arts Collier (UAC) — the official Local Arts Agency for Collier County — serves as the heart of the arts across Naples, Marco Island, Immokalee, and every community in between. Our mission is simple yet powerful: All the Arts for All of Collier.
Whether you’re a lifelong resident, a seasonal visitor, or new to the area, this is your complete guide to discovering the events, exhibitions, artists, and cultural moments that make Collier County one of Florida’s most creative destinations.
The Unified Arts Calendar: Your Daily Gateway to Naples & Collier County Arts
This isn’t just a list of dates. It’s a searchable, filterable hub where you can find:
- Workshops and masterclasses in painting, sculpture, photography, dance, music, and writing
- Live performances, theater productions, and concerts
- Gallery openings and artist receptions (especially in the beloved Naples Art District)
- Arts-centered fundraisers, galas, and community celebrations
- Film screenings, lectures, panel discussions, and family-friendly cultural events
Want to add your own event? Members can submit directly through the Member Portal. Non-members can email details to events@unitedartscollier.org or call 239-254-8242. We review every submission to keep the calendar accurate and high-quality.
Signature Events That Define the Collier County Arts Scene
Some events have become traditions that locals and visitors alike look forward to every year:
- Gulfside Gala – 45th Anniversary Celebration (Seagate Beach Club) An elegant evening of live music, immersive art installations, fine dining, and sparkling cocktails — all while raising critical funds for arts education and community programs.
- Seaside Soirée A beloved beachside fundraiser that combines coastal beauty with world-class art and entertainment.
- Naples International Dance Festival (annual) World-class dance performances and master classes that put Collier County on the international arts map.
- Naples Art District Open Studios and World Art Day collaborations Free, public opportunities to meet artists in their creative spaces and experience art-making firsthand.
Spotlight on Artists, Exhibitions & Calls for Entry
United Arts Collier actively champions local and regional artists through exhibitions, calls for artists, and promotional support.
Our online artist directory and featured artist spotlights give emerging and established creators visibility they wouldn’t have on their own. When you discover local artists in Collier County through UAC, you’re connecting directly with the people shaping our cultural identity.
Arts Education & Community Programs That Change Lives
Beyond performances and exhibitions, UAC delivers meaningful arts education across the county:
- Free and low-cost classes for all ages and abilities
- Specialized programs for at-risk youth (serving over 2,500 students annually)
- Arts & Health initiatives in partnership with NCH Healthcare System (including collaborative performances with groups like Brazilian Voices)
- Teen Painting Workshops at Collier County Libraries
The Collier Arts Archive: Preserving Our Cultural Story
In partnership with Florida Humanities, UAC maintains the Collier Arts Archive — a growing collection of stories, photographs, oral histories, and artifacts that document the rich artistic heritage of our county.
Why Discovering Arts in Collier County Matters
The numbers tell a powerful story.
According to the Americans for the Arts Economic Prosperity study, Collier County arts organizations generate more than $147 million in annual economic activity and contribute millions in local and state tax revenue. The arts aren’t just beautiful — they’re an economic engine that supports jobs, attracts visitors, and strengthens our quality of life.
When you attend an event, visit a gallery, or enroll in a workshop, you’re investing in that future.
How the New United Arts Collier Website Makes Discovery Even Better
With our upcoming website rebuild, discovering the arts will become even more seamless.
Contact United Arts Collier 239-254-8242 info@unitedartscollier.org 340 Tamiami Trail North, #201, Naples, FL 34102
United Arts Collier — The heart of the arts in Collier County.
Come discover what’s happening right now in Naples and across all of Collier County. The next unforgettable arts experience is closer than you think.
