Thursday, July 6, 2023

Art In The Park begins in Plymouth tomorrow

Art In The Park, voted “Best Local Event” by the Detroit Free Press and “The Best of Detroit” by HOUR Detroit magazine, is set to return to downtown Plymouth for the 43rd year this weekend. 

Recognized as one of the “Gems of the Great Lakes” by AAA Magazine and ranked #41 by Sunshine Artist magazine, the festival will take place on July 7, 8, and 9, and include more than 400 artists from 36 states.

Visitors to Art In The Park can look forward to strolling along the streets of downtown Plymouth, where they will be treated to an array of fine arts crafted by dedicated artists, organizers said. Each piece displayed at the show is handmade, showcasing the artists' skill. The event not only celebrates the visual arts but also offers an array of activities, including live entertainment, live art demonstrations, and a wide selection of food options, according to a prepared statement.

Attendees will have the opportunity to witness the creation of unique art experiences firsthand. 

The event will feature performances by The Monarch Hoop Troop professional hula hoop dancers, as well as displays by human statue and magician George Tait. At My Adventure Theater, children from the audience will become part of the show, creating a truly immersive experience in Kellogg Park.

Music enthusiasts can enjoy the sounds of reggae band Roots Vibrations, back by popular demand for all three days of the festival. Additionally, the world champion drummer and DJ percussion artist Ken Mazur will showcase his talent on the street. Visitors can also enjoy the melodies of vibraphonist John Davis.

This year, the giant street chalk art mural will transport spectators to the wonders of ancient Egypt. Visitors can witness the masterpiece come to life before their eyes, as well as the “Living Mural” where models' bodies are transformed with paint, depicting the land of pharaohs.

Since the event began in 1980 as a small gathering of 30 artists sharing their passion for art in Plymouth's Kellogg Park, Art In The Park has evolved into the largest single art festival in the state. The event offers a wealth of activities suitable for the whole family, including a record number of young artist entrepreneurs in Kellogg Park, organizers said.

Art In The Park will be open to the public from 11 a.m. until 8 p.m. on Friday, July 7; from 7 a.m. until 10 p.m. Saturday, July 8 and from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. Sunday, July 9.

A round-trip shuttle service will be available throughout the weekend from Schoolcraft College in Livonia. The shuttle fee is $6, while children younger than 12 can ride at no cost. As a special treat, FAYGO, one of the event sponsors, will be distributing free samples of their newest flavors to visitors.

For more information, schedules, and updates regarding Art In The Park, visit the official website at www.artinthe park.com or call (734) 454-1314.