The Upper Arlington Labor Day Arts Festival: A Celebration of Art, Community, and Fun!
Introduction
The Upper Arlington Labor Day Arts Festival is an annual event that has been a staple in the community for over five decades. This year, on Monday, September 2, from 10 am to 6 pm, Northam Park will be transformed into a vibrant hub of artistic expression and community celebration.
Art Galleries and Shopping Experience
The festival features more than 120 artists showcasing their fine art and fine craft work in various media, including paintings, photography, jewelry, pottery, sculptures, and mixed media. Located in the Tremont Road parking lot, the artist booths are thoughtfully arranged to provide easy access from multiple directions, making it simple to locate or revisit an artist's stall when you're ready to purchase some art.
As you wander through the galleries, you'll have the opportunity to engage with local artists, learn about their creative processes, and even take home a unique piece of art that reflects your personal style. With such a diverse range of media and artistic styles on display, there's something for everyone to appreciate and enjoy.
Art Activities Area: Fun for All Ages!
The Art Activities Area is a must-visit destination within the festival grounds. This interactive zone offers an array of hands-on activities designed to delight visitors of all ages. Some highlights include:
- A community mural created in collaboration with the UA Community Foundation, where participants can add their own creative touches to a large-scale artwork.
- Popsicle collages, origami mobiles, button people, felted butterflies, face painting, no-sew bags and jewelry, and more – all waiting to be discovered and enjoyed.
Main Entertainment Stage: A Day of Music and Delight!
The main entertainment stage, situated on the front lawn of Tremont Elementary, promises an exhilarating lineup of musical performances. This year's schedule includes:
- 11 am – The Big Badd
- 12:30 pm – CYNTsation
- 2 pm – Ladies of Longford
- 3:30 pm – Columbus Soul and Salvage
In addition to the musical performances, you can also catch live music within the Tremont Library, featuring talented acts like Musicologie, The Shazzbots, GOREE Drum and Dance, and dance performances by the Marjorie Jones School of Dance.
Community Engagement: Meet Your Neighbors!
This year's festival provides a unique opportunity to connect with various community groups showcasing their programs and initiatives. Some notable participants include:
- The Community Relations Committee
- Tri-Village Rotary Club
- Upper Arlington Commission on Aging
- Upper Arlington Schools
- LifeWise Academy
- United Arlington
- Youth Advocate Services
- The Wexner Center for the Arts
Food and Drink Options: Treat Yourself!
With over 20 food vendors and trucks along Tremont Road, you'll have plenty of delicious options to satisfy your cravings. Whether it's a sweet treat or savory meal, be sure to indulge in the culinary delights on offer.
Getting to the Festival: Your Guide
To ensure everyone has a smooth and enjoyable experience, we recommend taking advantage of our shuttle service from Wellington School (approximately every 15 minutes). Alternatively, you can bike to the festival and utilize our free bike valet service near the Tremont Library. If you prefer to drive, handicap/accessible parking will be available in the Tremont Center Parking Lot.
Conclusion
The Upper Arlington Labor Day Arts Festival is an event that embodies the very spirit of community, creativity, and fun! It's a celebration that has something for everyone – from art enthusiasts to families with young children. Don't miss out on this exciting experience! Click here for more information on the artists and full details of the day's activities.