Art in the Park was a small affair when it began in 1963. The first art fair included a few local hobby artists and high school art students. Painters hung their work on the wrought iron fence surrounding the fountain at Riverview Park, inspiring Hortense Blake, the fair's founder, to name the show "Art in the Park."

Over the 45 year history of the fair, it has moved to various locations within Clinton including the North End Shopping District for many years. Following a phenomenal growth spurt in the 1990's, the fair returned to its original location, Riverview Park. It has been held in July (too hot) and May (too rainy) and now is very comfortable with the Saturday in June preceding Father's Day.

As the reputation of the fair grew with visitors, so did its reputation with artists from across the country. It has been rated as one of the top 300 shows by Sunshine Artists magazine.

In 1997 the fair transformed itself into an arts festival, featuring live entertainment, strolling musicians, magicians and dancers. Today the blues and jazz music playing in the background is an integral part of the fair, enjoyed by all.

Art in the Park is a non-profit organization, managed by an all-volunteer staff. The growth and success of the fair that has been enjoyed over the years, continues to build the reputation of Art in the Park as the premier fine arts festival in the region.