The 35th annual Berea Arts Fest

Celebrating the theme “Making Waves,” the 35th annual Berea Arts Fest is moving to a dynamic destination: the scenic shores of Coe Lake. Set for Sunday, September 14, this acclaimed, day-long, multi-arts event brings together the lure of local and national artists, fabulous musical acts, amazing food trucks and immersive art experiences for people of all ages.

“Each year the number of artists we feature, and musical lineup, evolves and grows,” says Fest Coordinator Rich Cihlar. “Last year more than 12,000 people came. We’ve enjoyed support from the community and likewise we’ve supported artists and art exposure to the community. It’s a symbiotic relationship. We’ve always been free of charge, an opportunity for people of all ages to experience the joy of art.”

You’ll find more than 130 artist tents strung along the lake offering portraits, painting, enamel work, jewelry, photography, glass blowing, stained glass, metal works, ceramics, mixed media, printmaking and woodworking, and mixed media art.

To meet growing foodie demand, this year the Fest has invited 12 favorite food trucks, including The Pierogi Lady, You Enjoy My Donuts, bRaised in the CLE and Weber’s Premium Custard & Ice Cream.

“There are so many opportunities to relax and enjoy the day, like the adjacent amphitheater, eating spaces, trails and playgrounds. The beautiful new venue invites people to make a day of it,” Rich adds.

Strolling Demo Artists

“One of the favorite attractions fest-goers love is our group of demonstration artists, including performance artist Mark Abbati, the Joy Unspeakable Living Statue, caricature artist Adam Pate, origami artist Michael Roy Baldridge, Wizbang Theatre Strolling Performers, and three artists who will be doing live painting: Billy the Robot, Anthony Kleem and Bili Kribbs,” says Rich.

And for the junior set, budding Picassos can gather under the big tent to explore the Kids Kreation Station. This year, a wide range of hands-on, take-home projects for kids ages 3-12 years old includes paper bag kites, tissue paper paintings, CD wind spinners and paper fish. 

An Art Raffle held throughout the day raises funds to support the Fest, as well as its annual college scholarship program. Congratulations to this year’s winner Izabela Zelnicek, a passionate and driven artist who will pursue a degree in graphic design in the fall at Bowling Green State University.

“Her portfolio was so impressive and well put together,” Rich says. “She’s a vibrant part of her school community, both as an artist and student. We’ve been fortunate to attract applicants from different mediums, such as musicians and even the culinary arts over the years.”

For more information, contact Berea Arts Fest Coordinator Rich Cihlar at mailto: CoordinatorBAF@gmail.com, or 440-891-1102. For a complete Berea Arts Fest schedule and volunteer opportunities, visit BereaArtsFest.org. The festival runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday, September 14. Complimentary shuttle service will be provided by Baldwin Wallace University running from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., picking up guests at the Bonds Building on Eastland Road and dropping off at fest entrances. As always, admission is free. You can donate online to this 501(c)(3) organization.