Quick look: As the Orange County Arts and Disability Festival marks its 50th anniversary, OCDE is calling for visual and performing arts entries ahead of the April event celebrating decades of creativity, inclusion and community.
Fifty years after its first celebration in Orange County, the Arts and Disability Festival is marking a golden anniversary with a call for visual and performing arts entries ahead of its April return.
The Orange County Department of Education is inviting students and adults with disabilities to submit entries for the 50th annual Orange County Arts and Disability Festival, scheduled for Saturday, April 25 at MainPlace Mall in Santa Ana.
First held in 1976, the festival has provided a platform for artists with disabilities to showcase work across disciplines including visual art, music, dance, theater and writing.
Celebrating five decades of creativity
This year’s theme, “Shine On,” reflects the event’s golden anniversary and honors the artists, educators and community members who have contributed to its legacy over the past five decades.
“Our theme this year honors the brilliance that has illuminated our festival for 50 years,” said Marleena Barber, arts and disability consultant for OCDE and director of Orange County Arts and Disability. “For half a century, artists with disabilities have shown our community that creativity shines brightest when everyone is seen, valued and celebrated.”
Returning as emcee for the 2026 festival is Dani Bowman, an award-winning animator widely known for her appearance on the Netflix series “Love on the Spectrum.” She previously served as emcee and will once again guide audiences through the day’s performances and activities.
American Sign Language interpretation will be provided by Dawn Morin of the Huntington Beach Union High School District and Mayleen Richardson of the Anaheim Union High School District. The interpreters will cover the opening ceremony and performances on the festival stage.
Hosted by OCDE in partnership with Orange County Arts and Disability, the daylong festival will feature live performances, hands-on workshops, a community resource fair and a visual art exhibition. Organizers are encouraging participation from school districts across Orange County as part of the 50th-anniversary celebration.
Participating districts will be recognized with a “Golden Palette” plaque in honor of their commitment to providing arts education and experiences for students.
Entries for both visual and performing arts are due by Friday, March 6. Additional information is available on the OC Arts and Disability Festival webpage.