Arts in the Park

This year was a perfect day for this event.
Could not ask for more… Many local artists with a wide venue of talents and skill sets… food not so much. although the ice cream was good.

Just got back from this year’s event. Maybe I’ve been going too long but it’s the same vendors year after year. And why aren’t there local food trucks instead of the greasy state fair crapfood?

If you enjoy a relaxing walk through the park, you’ll love Arts in the Park.
If you enjoy looking at a wide variety of quality work by artisans, both fine and craft, you’ll love Arts in the Park.
If you enjoy classic fair fare like corn dogs, deep-​fried oreos, gyros, funnel cake and lemonade, you’ll love Arts in the Park.
I’ve been coming to Arts in the Park for about seven years now and see great stuff every year. The artists come from all over the east coast and beyond, and offer something for everyone. I tend to prefer my art on the finer side and usually find something to take home. sometimes value priced and sometimes not so much. I have paintings, photographs and sculpture that I couldn’t live without. I’ve also seen many craft items including yard art (it’s a thing), jewelry, clothing and textiles, wood crafts, glass art, and much more.
Bottom line, it’s a great way to spend a few hours on a weekend getting some culture and enjoying the day with friends and/​or family. Parking is always easy… just follow the guys with the orange flags for free parking in the area behind Dogwood Dell and near the dog park.

I love this art festival and it couldn’t be at a more perfect time of year. While I browse the paintings, glass, ceramics and woodwork, I really love the handcrafted jewelry and abundance of festival junk food.
You’re not supposed to bring dogs, but a lot of people do. I never take my either of my dogs to big events like this. My litte daschund, Max, would get stepped on and my 85-​pound shepherd would go nuts with all the food smells.
The tents are set up on the Mall area and in and around the Carillon. I’ve been lucky to snag nearby parking, but you can also park at the University of RIchmond stadium for free and take the free shuttle.

This annual juried arts show that’s hosted by the Carillon Civic Association takes place every spring. More than 450 painters, crafters, textile designers, jewelry makers, potters and more from around the United States come to Byrd Park for a weekend of art sales. The event is free and you can park in the park, or park at the University of Richmond stadium and take a free shuttle.
I love this event for the sheer quantity of items to browse. This past year I wandered past creative paintings, really cool wooden fish decorated with bottle caps, crocheted scarves, funky handmade jewelry and more. It’s a great time to pick up something small or to invest in larger art. There are also fair foods for sale. Proceeds are used to improve the Carillon and are donated to other area organizations.