WILLIAMSBURG-Since 1969, An Occasion for the Arts has celebrated outstanding artists, stage performers, and youth activities in the community. The art festival, held annually throughout downtown Williamsburg the first weekend of October, returns this year in person after being cancelled last fall due to the covid-19 pandemic.
An Occasion for the Arts, which showcases art in all its forms, will feature more than 60 artists and vendors from roughly two dozen states across the country. The event will be held Saturday, October 2, and Sunday, October 3 from 10 am to 5 pm.
The art media spans the spectrum from 2-D art represented in paintings, photography, and digital to 3-D art in sculpture, jewelry, fiber, and ceramics. The event will also feature an interactive community art project in partnership with Steve Prince and the Muscarelle Museum of Art and musical performances by Joe’s Day Off, Runaway String Band, Sammy Lee and other musicians as well as The Colonial Williamsburg Fifes & Drums. Virginia Regional Ballet will also offer a family-oriented dance program.
In addition, Sarah Balascio will be on hand with sessions of “Art for Well Being.” Balascio is an art therapist and adjunct lecturer at the College of William & Mary. Need a little dose of magic? William the Conjurer will perform period magic in a family-oriented way.
“We are looking forward to seeing everyone enjoying Williamsburg’s favorite weekend, all the fabulous art, great local music and entertainment, and just being together again,” said Nancy Wigley, president of the Board of Directors for An Occasion for the Arts.
For more information on this year’s festival, visit https://aofta.org/.