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Denver Arts Festival names Jana Novak new owner ahead of 2026 event
ColoradoBiz Staff //April 29, 2026//
Jana Novak, owner and executive director, Denver Arts Festival.
Jana Novak, owner and executive director, Denver Arts Festival.
Denver Arts Festival names Jana Novak new owner ahead of 2026 event
ColoradoBiz Staff //April 29, 2026//
In Brief:
- Jana Novak named new owner and executive director
- 2026 festival scheduled for may 23-24 at conservatory green
- Jim DeLutes transitions from denver arts festival leadership
- Festival partners with Colorado Pet Pantry nonprofit
The Denver Arts Festival has named Jana Novak as its new owner and executive director ahead of its 2026 event in Central Park.
The annual festival, held since 1999, is scheduled for May 23-24 at Conservatory Green near MCA Central Park. It features Colorado artists primarily, along with a smaller group of national artists.
Novak succeeds photographer Jim DeLutes, who led the event for years as it grew in national recognition. DeLutes will continue to operate the Affordable Arts Festival in Littleton and is assisting with the transition.
“It was important to find the right person to lead the Denver Arts Festival into its next era,” DeLutes said. “Someone who would understand the logistics of a large event and also understand its heart.”
Novak is also the majority owner of the Denver Graffiti Tour and has worked as a writer and consultant. She said she plans to continue the festival’s focus on connecting artists with the community.
“My goal is to ensure this festival remains a place where all people can connect with artists and collect original art, as well as one where artists are valued and supported,” Novak said.
Artist applications for the 2026 festival are closed. Organizers plan to announce participating artists and additional details later this spring.
The festival partners with Colorado Pet Pantry, a nonprofit that helps pet owners access food during financial hardship.
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