This story originally appeared in The Centre County Gazette.
BELLEFONTE — The Bellefonte Arts and Crafts Fair will return to the streets of downtown Bellefonte for its 41st iteration on Friday, Aug. 2, and Saturday, Aug. 3.
The fair will be open to the public from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 2, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 3, with on-stage artists, food vendors, hands-on activities for kids and adults and live music. Additional youth artist sales will take place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on both days of the festival.
“The Annual Bellefonte Arts and Crafts Festival celebrates creativity offering a fun arts and crafts haven for everyone,” the festival committee said in a statement on the fair’s website. “Enjoy arts, crafts and more from talented artists and crafters from near and far. Bring along the kids for numerous fun activities and games that will be sure to make memories.
“Also, don’t forget to save room for supper. With countless delectable delights from the area’s finest concessionaires, no one will leave hungry!”
In addition to the wide array of arts and crafts vendors throughout the fair, the event will also host different activities and musical performances for attendees of all ages. From noon to 4:30 p.m. on both days of the festival, guests are invited to visit the Makery at the Bellefonte Art Museum at 133 N. Allegheny St. for a free bug hotel activity.
“Immerse yourself in the world of insects through stunning visual displays, immersive multimedia experiences and interactive installations,” the Bellefonte Arts and Crafts Fair website noted. “Uncover the crucial role insects play in sustaining ecosystems, pollinating plants, inspiring art, music and literature and even contributing to advancements in medicine, biofuels and construction materials. Engage with the worlds of gall wasps, leaf miners, native bees, honeybees, etc., and learn about insects’ impacts on our world.”
The Centre County Library, located at 200 North Allegheny St., will offer a free art activity from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 2, and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 3, where attendees can color and create Horatio the Library Cat themed paper dolls.
All other musical performances will take place on the Diamond, including:
Friday, August 2
10 to 11 a.m. — Michael Yeaney, playing pop, rock and country
11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. — Kick the Footlights with Steve Hinckley and Larry Boggess, playing classic country from ’50s to ’80s
1 to 2 p.m. — Urban Fusion, playing a mix of jazz, soul, funk and more
2:30 to 3:30 p.m. — Honey Pie, featuring sweet and soulful sounds
4 to 5 p.m. — Cat’s Eye with Jay Vonada and Melanie Morrison, playing classic cabaret jazz
5 to 5:30 p.m. — Artist Awards (subject to change)
5:30 to 6:30 p.m. — Fools on Stools (Mifflin County Legends), playing classic rock and oldies
7 to 8 p.m. — Code Blue, playing classic rhythm and blues and soul
Saturday, August 3
10 to 11 a.m. — Bellefonte Community Band
11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. — Shooting Stars, playing bluegrass tunes
12:30 to 1 p.m. — American Raiders Baton Corps, Youth Baton Twirling Corps
1 to 2 p.m. — RamaLama Reunion, playing a range of ’50s and ’60s a cappella doo wop
2 to 2:30 pm. — Hot Styles Dance Studio, performing hip hop dances
2:30 to 3:30 p.m. — 91 Stitches, playing ’90s rock music
4 to 5 p.m. — Keystone Big Band, performing big band music
