Arts Fest Kicks Off With A Day Dedicated To Kids

By

StateCollege.com Staff

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July 8, 2015 – 7:15 am

For all the art and music loving kids, let your creative side run wild at the Children and Youth Day festival.

A tradition that has been part of The Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts for over 30 years is back to entertain youngsters of all ages.

“The Children and Youth Day gives kids a chance to enjoy the arts,” says Rick Bryant, Arts Fest executive director. “It also gives kids a chance to come out and show off their talents.”

Starting at 10 a.m. Wednesday, the festival kicks off with Children and Youth Day Sidewalk Sale. According to Bryant, that event is the biggest hit of the day.

“There are 175 booths that are going to be set up during the sale,” says Bryant. “Kids get a chance to show off their artistic side by displaying some of their original artwork.”

All the work you’ll see for sale will be made by kids between the ages of eight and 18. The products range anywhere from bracelets to clothing items.

The sale will be held on Allen Street and will last till 3 p.m.

Besides the Sidewalk Sale, you can go to Old Main Lawn or Sidney Friedman Park and take part in the many activities designed just for kids.

“We have lots of workshops that give the kids a chance to get creative,” says Bryant. “Kids can get their face painted or participate in a variety arts and craft activities.”

Activities range anywhere from making your own suncatcher to watching as professionals train puppies that one day will assist sight impaired dogs.

There are also going to be some unique performances by bands, a theater group and a dance squad.

“Performing at the arts fest is something that the kids will remember forever,” says Bryant. “With all the people in attendance it’s a great time for the performers.”

As the day winds down, there will be a grand procession parade. Kids will be carrying or wearing costumes designed to look like giant papier-mâché creatures. The parade route will go from the Old Main lawn down South Allen Street to Sidney Friedman Park.

“Kids come from far distances to take part in this festival,” says Bryant. “For as long as I’ve been a part of the festival, we’ve always had a huge turnout.”

Click Here for a full list of event details and times.