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GRESHAM, OR. – Celebrate art with free, family-friendly fun at the 17th annual Gresham Arts Festival with more than 175 artists, live music, Paint to Fame world record and more—it’s all happening on Friday, July 20 and Saturday, July 21 at the 17th annual Gresham Arts Festival in historic downtown Gresham.
The Gresham Arts Festival draws thousands from around the region each year to the charming downtown streets to meet, browse and shop from a carefully curated selection of Northwest artists and artisans, ranging from painters, potters and sculptors to woodworkers, photographers, jewelers and more.
“I invite you to spend a summer weekend in our beautiful and vibrant downtown. Whether you’re an art lover or just looking for some free fun for the whole family, you’ll find it at the Gresham Arts Festival,” Mayor Shane Bemis said.
The fun begins on Friday, July 20 from 5:30-10 p.m. with the Art Under the Stars charitable silent auction event. Attendees will enjoy family style dining outside on Main Street in historic downtown Gresham with local business specials, live music by Blues artist Lisa Mann, as well as games for the whole family. Arts Festival artists have donated artwork to the silent auction, proceeds benefiting the nonprofit Gresham Outdoor Public Art. Beer, wine, food and other refreshments will be available for purchase.
The Gresham Arts Festival continues on Saturday, July 21, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and in addition to more than 175 artist booths and a several musical acts, the Kids’ Village will set up shop at the Arts Plaza. Cool off in the Children’s Fountain, tackle a sports obstacle course, and enjoy bounce houses, crafts and much more.
More than 100 shops and eateries will throw their doors open for visitors to browse and dine. The Gresham Farmers’ Market will offer fresh produce on 3rd Street starting at 9 a.m. and adds to the festivities by remaining open until 5 p.m.
The Gresham community and festival visitors will also come together for Paint to Fame, the world’s largest paint party. Throughout the day, local Gresham artists will host 30-minute paint sessions to teach attendees how to paint a beautiful Greshamscape. Attendees get to take home the canvas. Online reservations are encouraged, but walk-ins are welcome at the Arts Plaza on Third Street between Hood and Kelly Avenues. Reservations accepted at www.GreshamOregon.gov/Paint-to-Fame.
On Saturday evening, Gresham’s Got Talent will showcase a wide array of talented entertainers in our community, all competing for the title of Gresham’s Most Talented and the first place prize of $1,000. The event will be held at the Arts Plaza. Food and beverage booths will open at 5 p.m.; the show begins at 6:30 p.m.
Park at Gresham City Hall at 1333 NW Eastman Parkway and take the free shuttle, courtesy of First Student, to the Arts Plaza. Parking is also available at nine City-owned lots in and around downtown, or take public transportation via TriMet’s MAX Blue Line to Gresham Central Transit Center.
More than sixty sponsors make this community event possible. Special thanks to our Patron sponsors: Gresham Ford, Gresham Station, The Outlook/Pamplin Media Group, MetroEast Community Media, 101.9 KINK and 98.7 The Bull.
For more information, visit www.GreshamOregon.gov/Gresham-Arts-Festival.
For information the day of the event, members of the media may call or text Elizabeth Coffey, Communications Manager for the City of Gresham, at 503-793-4167.