Annual Williamsburg art festival returns this weekend despite rain threat

WILLIAMSBURG – Williamsburg’s annual art and music festival, “An Occasion for the Arts,” is returning to Merchants Square for its 58th year this weekend – despite a rainy forecast.

The two-day event, held Oct. 3 and 4, is set to feature over 150 artists, live performances, a community art project and food vendors. All are welcome to attend, and admission is free.

Executive Director Hannah Barco said the festival creates unique opportunities for new connections to be forged.

“I am most looking forward to the relationships between artists and audiences that will be built and strengthened through this celebration,” Barco said.

This year’s program schedule features new concepts while continuing the traditions that have come to define one of Williamsburg’s largest annual events.

New ‘zones’ create themed spaces

For the first time ever, guests can become immersed in a variety of experiences contained within themed spaces. The zones this year include:

• Main Street Artists – An open-air gallery where attendees can discover nationally juried artists presenting original work.
• Front Porch – An opportunity to meet talented local artists and view their original local work, including paintings, photography, ceramics, mixed-media and more.
• Patron’s Patio – This centrally located, tented area provides a VIP festival experience for supporters. There will be complimentary food, wine tastings, artist demonstrations and live music.
• Block Party – Music, food and drinks will be featured in this zone on both days of the event.
• The Avant Garden – A youth-centered space, presented in partnership with the Muscarelle Museum of Art, featuring an exhibition of local K-12 student art and performances by local dance, theatre and music students.

Live performances will be held on the main stage throughout the weekend. Among the highlights are poet Lacroy “Atlas” Nixon, champion Scottish fiddler John Turner, folk and gospel singers Bill Jenkins and the Virginia Mountain Boys, local band Joe’s Day Off and the William & Mary Eastern Music Ensemble.

An immersive sound walk, “VA Unlocked,” will also debut this year. The experience focuses on the voices, stories, places and people across Virginia that have helped create hip-hop culture.

Setup designed to accomodate rain

Plans are in place to ensure attendees can enjoy the festival regardless of the weather, according to organizers. 

“A little rain won’t stop us from celebrating,” the organization stated in a Facebook post on Friday. “We’ll have tents throughout the Festival to help keep you comfortable while you explore, shop, listen and enjoy the weekend.”

Guests are encouraged to bring an umbrella in preparation for a weekend of art, music and community.

Barco said a large turnout is anticipated. Last year’s festival drew about 35,000 visitors.

“Everyone is invited to come out and support our artists: national, local and youth,” Barco said.

For additional information, including a full schedule of events, visit aofta.org.