The Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts, fondly known as “Arts Fest,” is one of the most beloved cultural events in the region. Held annually in the heart of State College, Pennsylvania, this festival has grown from a modest celebration of the arts into a major event that draws artists, performers, and visitors from across the nation. For five days each summer, the town transforms into a vibrant hub of creativity, showcasing a diverse array of artistic talent, live performances, and community spirit.
Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor, the Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts offers something for everyone. From exquisite fine art to captivating performances, family-friendly activities to gourmet food, Arts Fest is a celebration of all things creative.
History of the Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts
The Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts has a rich history that dates back to the 1960s. The idea for the festival was born from a desire to celebrate the arts and bring the community together through a shared appreciation of creativity. Over the decades, the festival has evolved, but its core mission remains the same: to promote the arts, foster community engagement, and provide a platform for artists to showcase their work.
The Early Years: 1967 and Beyond
The inaugural Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts was held in 1967, organized by the State College Chamber of Commerce and the Art Alliance of Central Pennsylvania. The event was a small, community-focused affair, featuring local artists, musicians, and performers. Despite its modest beginnings, the festival was a success, drawing a large crowd and generating enthusiasm for the arts in the region.
Growth and Expansion
As the years went by, the festival continued to grow in size and scope. What started as a local event soon attracted artists and visitors from outside the region. The addition of the Sidewalk Sale and Exhibition in 1968 marked a turning point for the festival, transforming it into a major event on the national arts scene. The Sidewalk Sale, featuring booths set up along the streets of downtown State College, became one of the festival’s signature attractions, showcasing high-quality artwork from a diverse array of artists.
A Platform for Emerging and Established Artists
Throughout its history, the Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts has been committed to providing a platform for both emerging and established artists. The festival’s juried exhibition process ensures that the artwork on display meets high standards of quality and creativity. This commitment to excellence has helped the festival build a reputation as one of the top art fairs in the country.
A Community Tradition
Today, the Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts is more than just an art fair—it’s a cherished community tradition. The festival brings together people of all ages and backgrounds, fostering a sense of pride and connection among residents and visitors alike. Whether you’re strolling through the Sidewalk Sale, enjoying a live performance, or participating in a hands-on art activity, there’s a palpable sense of joy and camaraderie that permeates the event.
Key Attractions of the Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts
The Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts offers a wide range of attractions and activities that cater to all interests and ages. From stunning visual art to live performances, family-friendly activities to culinary delights, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Let’s take a closer look at some of the festival’s key attractions:
1. Sidewalk Sale and Exhibition
The Sidewalk Sale and Exhibition is the heart of the Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts. This juried art fair features hundreds of artists from across the country, each displaying their work in booths set up along the streets of downtown State College. The artwork on display includes a wide variety of media, including painting, sculpture, photography, ceramics, jewelry, textiles, and more.
Why Visit the Sidewalk Sale?
- High-Quality Art: The festival’s juried process ensures that the artwork on display is of the highest quality. Whether you’re an art collector or simply appreciate beautiful things, you’re sure to find something that catches your eye.
- Diverse Selection: With hundreds of artists participating, the Sidewalk Sale offers a diverse array of styles and media. Whether you prefer traditional landscapes, contemporary abstract art, or something in between, there’s something for everyone.
- Meet the Artists: One of the unique aspects of the Sidewalk Sale is the opportunity to meet the artists themselves. Many artists are on hand to discuss their work, share their creative process, and even create custom pieces.
- Support the Arts: Purchasing artwork at the Sidewalk Sale is a great way to support the arts and bring a piece of the festival home with you.
2. Performing Arts
In addition to visual art, the Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts is also known for its vibrant performing arts scene. The festival features a wide range of live performances, including music, dance, theater, and more. Performances take place on outdoor stages, in local theaters, and in other venues throughout downtown State College.
Types of Performances to Enjoy:
- Music: The festival’s music lineup includes everything from classical to jazz, folk to rock, and everything in between. Local, regional, and national acts take the stage, providing a diverse musical experience for festival-goers.
- Dance: Dance performances at the festival showcase a variety of styles, including ballet, modern dance, folk dance, and more. These performances are often accompanied by live music, creating a dynamic and engaging experience.
- Theater: The festival also features theatrical performances, ranging from classic plays to contemporary works. Whether you’re a fan of drama, comedy, or musical theater, there’s something to enjoy.
- Street Performers: In addition to scheduled performances, the festival is filled with street performers who entertain crowds with their talents. From jugglers to magicians, musicians to acrobats, these performers add an element of surprise and delight to the festival atmosphere.
3. Children and Family Activities
The Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts is a family-friendly event, with plenty of activities designed to engage and entertain children of all ages. The festival’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of artists and art lovers is evident in its wide range of kid-friendly offerings.
Family-Friendly Attractions:
- Children and Youth Day: The festival kicks off with Children and Youth Day, a special day dedicated to young artists. The event includes a youth sidewalk sale, where young artists can showcase and sell their work, as well as hands-on art activities, performances, and more.
- Hands-On Art Projects: Throughout the festival, children can participate in a variety of hands-on art projects, from painting and drawing to sculpture and crafts. These activities are designed to spark creativity and encourage artistic expression.
- Interactive Performances: Many of the festival’s performances are designed with young audiences in mind. Interactive shows, storytelling sessions, and puppet theater are just a few examples of the engaging performances that families can enjoy together.
- Family Zone: The festival’s Family Zone is a designated area filled with activities and attractions for children and families. In addition to art projects and performances, the Family Zone often features games, face painting, and other fun activities.
4. Special Exhibitions and Installations
In addition to the Sidewalk Sale and performing arts, the Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts also features special exhibitions and installations that showcase a wide range of artistic talent. These exhibitions often explore specific themes or highlight the work of particular artists or groups.
Examples of Special Exhibitions:
- Juried Fine Art Exhibition: This exhibition showcases the work of artists who have been selected through a competitive jury process. The exhibition features a wide range of media and styles, and awards are given for the best pieces in various categories.
- Banner Exhibition: The festival’s Banner Exhibition is a unique display of large, colorful banners that are hung along the streets of downtown State College. These banners are created by local artists, students, and community members, adding a vibrant visual element to the festival.
- Public Art Installations: Throughout the festival, visitors can explore a variety of public art installations, including sculptures, murals, and interactive pieces. These installations often reflect the festival’s theme and contribute to the overall artistic atmosphere.
5. Food and Beverage
No festival is complete without delicious food and drinks, and the Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts is no exception. The festival offers a wide range of culinary options, from gourmet food trucks to local restaurants, ensuring that there’s something to satisfy every palate.
Culinary Highlights:
- Food Trucks: The festival’s food truck lineup features a variety of cuisines, from classic American fare to international flavors. Whether you’re craving a juicy burger, a fresh salad, or a sweet treat, you’re sure to find something to enjoy.
- Local Restaurants: Many of State College’s local restaurants participate in the festival, offering special menus and outdoor seating. This is a great opportunity to sample the area’s culinary scene and enjoy a meal in a festive atmosphere.
- Beer and Wine Garden: The festival’s Beer and Wine Garden is a popular spot for adults to relax and enjoy a refreshing drink. Featuring a selection of craft beers and local wines, it’s the perfect place to unwind and soak in the festival vibes.
- Sweet Treats: From ice cream to funnel cakes, the festival offers plenty of sweet treats to satisfy your cravings. These indulgent delights are a favorite among festival-goers of all ages.
6. Community and Cultural Events
In addition to its artistic offerings, the Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts also hosts a variety of community and cultural events that celebrate the region’s rich heritage and diversity. These events provide opportunities for festival-goers to learn, connect, and engage with the local community.
Community and Cultural Highlights:
- Cultural Performances: The festival features performances by cultural groups that showcase traditional music, dance, and art from around the world. These performances provide a window into different cultures and celebrate the diversity of the community.
- Workshops and Demonstrations: Throughout the festival, artists and craftspeople offer workshops and demonstrations, sharing their skills and knowledge with the public. These sessions cover a wide range of topics, from painting and pottery to jewelry making and woodworking.
- Parades and Processions: The festival often includes parades and processions that add to the festive atmosphere. These events might feature marching bands, dance troupes, and colorful floats, bringing a sense of celebration to the streets of State College.
7. Shopping and Souvenirs
In addition to art, the Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts offers plenty of shopping opportunities. From unique handmade crafts to festival merchandise, there’s a wide variety of items to take home as a memento of your festival experience.
Shopping Opportunities:
- Art and Crafts: The Sidewalk Sale and Exhibition is the perfect place to shop for one-of-a-kind artwork and handmade crafts. Whether you’re looking for a statement piece for your home or a unique gift for a loved one, you’re sure to find something special.
- Festival Merchandise: The festival offers a range of branded merchandise, including t-shirts, hats, posters, and more. These items make great souvenirs and help support the festival.
- Local Shops: Many of State College’s local shops and boutiques participate in the festival, offering special promotions and festival-themed products. This is a great opportunity to explore the town and discover local businesses.
8. Sustainability and Green Initiatives
The Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts is committed to sustainability and environmental stewardship. The festival has implemented a number of green initiatives to reduce its environmental impact and promote sustainable practices among festival-goers.
Sustainability Efforts:
- Recycling and Waste Reduction: The festival has implemented a comprehensive recycling program, with designated recycling stations throughout the event. Festival-goers are encouraged to recycle their waste and reduce their use of single-use plastics.
- Sustainable Vendors: The festival works with food and beverage vendors to promote sustainable practices, such as using compostable packaging and sourcing ingredients locally. These efforts help reduce the festival’s carbon footprint and support local agriculture.
- Public Transportation and Bike Parking: To reduce traffic congestion and lower emissions, the festival encourages visitors to use public transportation, carpool, or bike to the event. The festival provides bike parking and works with local transit authorities to offer convenient transportation options.
- Environmental Education: Throughout the festival, there are opportunities to learn about environmental issues and sustainability. Workshops, demonstrations, and informational booths provide valuable insights into how we can all contribute to a greener future.
How to Plan Your Visit to the Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts
Planning your visit to the Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts is key to making the most of your experience. With so much to see and do, it’s important to be prepared so you can fully enjoy the festival’s offerings. Here are some tips to help you plan your visit:
Check the Festival Schedule
The first step in planning your visit is to check the festival schedule. The Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts website (https://arts-festival.com) provides a detailed schedule of events, including performance times, artist demonstrations, and special activities. Review the schedule in advance so you can prioritize the events you want to attend.
Book Your Accommodations Early
If you’re traveling from out of town, be sure to book your accommodations early. The festival draws a large crowd, and hotels in State College and the surrounding area can fill up quickly. Consider staying in a nearby town if accommodations in State College are unavailable.
Plan Your Transportation
State College is a small town, so parking can be limited during the festival. Consider using public transportation, carpooling, or biking to the event. The festival website provides information on parking options and shuttle services, so be sure to review these options before you arrive.
Dress Comfortably
The Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts takes place outdoors, so it’s important to dress comfortably and be prepared for a range of weather conditions. Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll likely be doing a lot of walking, and bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun. If rain is in the forecast, pack a lightweight rain jacket or umbrella.
Bring Cash and Cards
While many vendors at the festival accept credit and debit cards, it’s a good idea to bring some cash as well. Some smaller vendors may only accept cash, and having it on hand can make transactions quicker and easier. There are ATMs available in downtown State College if you need to withdraw cash.
Stay Hydrated and Take Breaks
The festival can be busy and bustling, so it’s important to stay hydrated and take breaks when needed. Bring a refillable water bottle and take advantage of the festival’s water stations to stay hydrated throughout the day. There are plenty of places to sit and relax, so take the time to rest and recharge.
Explore the Surrounding Area
While you’re in State College for the festival, take the opportunity to explore the surrounding area. The region is known for its beautiful scenery, outdoor activities, and historic sites. Whether you enjoy hiking, visiting museums, or simply taking in the local culture, there’s plenty to see and do beyond the festival.
Bring Your Family and Friends
The Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts is a wonderful event to share with family and friends. Whether you’re attending with children, a group of friends, or a partner, the festival offers something for everyone to enjoy. Plan your visit together and make the most of this vibrant celebration of the arts.
Why You Should Attend the Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts
The Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts is more than just a festival—it’s a celebration of creativity, community, and the power of the arts to bring people together. Here are just a few reasons why you should make it a point to attend this iconic event:
Experience World-Class Art
The Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts is renowned for its high-quality art and craftsmanship. Whether you’re an art collector, an artist yourself, or simply someone who appreciates beautiful things, you’ll be inspired by the incredible talent on display.
Enjoy Live Performances
From music and dance to theater and street performances, the festival’s live entertainment lineup offers something for everyone. The performances are diverse, engaging, and often interactive, making them a highlight of the festival experience.
Create Lasting Memories
Attending the Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts is an opportunity to create lasting memories with family and friends. Whether you’re exploring the Sidewalk Sale, enjoying a concert, or participating in a hands-on art project, the festival is filled with moments that you’ll cherish for years to come.
Support the Arts and Local Economy
By attending the festival and purchasing artwork, food, and other items from local vendors, you’re supporting the arts and contributing to the local economy. Your participation helps ensure that the festival can continue to thrive and bring joy to the community for years to come.
Celebrate Community Spirit
The Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts is a true community event, bringing together people from all walks of life to celebrate the arts. The sense of camaraderie and community spirit is palpable, making the festival a special and meaningful experience for all who attend.
Discover New Artists and Art Forms
The festival is a great place to discover new artists and explore different art forms. Whether you’re drawn to traditional painting and sculpture or more contemporary and experimental works, the festival offers a diverse array of artistic expressions to explore.
Immerse Yourself in the Festival Atmosphere
There’s something magical about the atmosphere of the Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts. The streets of State College come alive with color, music, and creativity, creating an immersive experience that is both exciting and inspiring. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a festival regular, you’ll find yourself swept up in the energy and excitement of the event.
Conclusion: Join the Celebration at the Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts
The Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts is a beloved tradition that has brought joy, inspiration, and a sense of community to State College for over five decades. With its diverse array of artistic offerings, live performances, family-friendly activities, and community events, the festival truly offers something for everyone.
Whether you’re an artist, a performer, a family looking for a fun outing, or simply someone who loves the arts, the Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts is an event you won’t want to miss. Mark your calendar, gather your friends and family, and join the celebration of creativity and community in the heart of Central Pennsylvania.
For more information about the festival, including schedules, maps, and ticket information, visit the official website at https://arts-festival.com. We look forward to seeing you at the next Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts, where art, culture, and community come together in a vibrant celebration of creativity.
