Waterbury Arts Fest moves to Aug. 25-26
July 15, 2023 | By Waterbury Roundabout
For the first time, Waterbury Arts Fest has a commemortive poster this year. Copies will be available at Arts Fest. Courtesy image
Waterbury Arts Fest is no stranger to responding to unforeseen circumstances.
Now in its 23rd year, the annual two-day block party and arts festival has been rescheduled to Friday-Saturday, Aug 25-26, due to flooding this week that made the original July 14-15 dates untenable.
Usually held the second weekend in July, the event shifted during the COVID-19 pandemic as well. The festival is the primary fundraiser for the nonprofit economic and community development organization, Revitalizing Waterbury.
“We are so disappointed that we have to postpone the Arts Fest,” said Karen Nevin, executive director of Revitalizing Waterbury. “We just couldn’t find a way to put it on considering the flood damage in the area. We have to pivot and prioritize caring for our businesses and neighbors at this time.”
Now the plan is for Revitalizing Waterbury to host the entire event as planned at the end of August.
The Friday Night Block Party, 5 to 9:30 p.m. will include a large stage and live music, a beer garden, and food court. More than a dozen food vendors will set up at 5 Pilgrim Park behind the Waterbury Train Station. Last year was the first time the event was held on the grassy lawn and across the nearby parking lot with plenty of room for vendors to spread out and attendees to picnic.
On Saturday, the lawn will be transformed into a busy arts and crafts market featuring over 100 artist and vendor booths. “We plan to bring back all of the artists and craftspeople showing off their beautiful wares,” Nevin said.
Also on Saturday is a full schedule of entertainment at center stage, with local favorites and area musicians. Saturday’s schedule runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Waterbury Arts Fest is sponsored by dozens of local businesses, led by grand sponsor VSECU and Suburban Propane, Fairfield Inn by Marriott, and Ben & Jerry’s. More information online at WaterburyArtsFest.com.
Friday Night Block Party at Waterbury Arts Fest 2022. File photo by Gordon Miller