I think the Arts Fest has been improving in the last couple years. I like that they're constantly striving to make improvements and keep up with the times. There are two reasons I specifically wanted to update my review.
One reason is that I felt they're trying to make an effort to include local artists who are affordable. I was happy to see Strawberryluna there (if you don't know who you are, google them quickly!), who are at a lot of the I Made It Markets around town. But I also bought something from another artist from Ohio that also had fairly priced prints. I was super excited that I made not one, but two purchases this year!
Second, I loved the beer garden along the Wyndham Hotel. Brilliant idea! Even better... throw Penn Brewery into the mix! I loved being able to stop in before a free concert and enjoy a little adult bevvie that wasn't that sugary sweet lemonade. My only hope is that they continue and expand this!
I will also note that I really enjoyed that they brought some current acts like Edward Sharpe and Airborne Toxic in. I believe the past two years no one of interest to me had come. This is purely selfish though, because I know they have to include a wide variety of acts to please everyone. But I thoroughly enjoyed the modern rock/indie bands!
Plus, who can forget the epic moment when the fountain turned on for the first time in years!?
Keep evolving Arts Fest and maybe we can get you back to a full 3 weeks again!