Summer and art fairs go hand in hand, which means both are quickly (sadly!) dwindling for 2012. So get out there while you can—there are a couple good options this Saturday. Both are free to attend, and promise food, fun, and family activities, along with great opportunities to decorate your home with unique, locally-made wares.
Riverwalk Market Fair
Saturday, August 18 | 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Northfield’s market runs regularly for many months, but now’s the time to catch it before the open-air market heads indoors. Expect local arts and crafts, like glass work from featured artist Dale Brown; organic and sustainably grown foods from the likes of Luigi Sison and Klaus Thuringer making mustards, jams, and more; live entertainment from Bill McGrath of Bonnie and the Clydes; plus a pretty view of Cannon River. This Saturday in particular promises many food artisans and samples, so perhaps you’ll get inspired in the kitchen as well! Downtown Northfield on Bridge Square, located at Division Street and 4th Street.
Learn more at riverwalkmarketfair.org
ARTigras 2012
Saturday, August 18 | Starts at 9 a.m.
Rochester is focusing on art and culture and kids activities at this festival, so you just may come home with free decor, courtesy of your child or grandchild. Enjoy the ARTiStage featuring professional musical performers like Midnight Cowgirl and Pat Costello, the juried ARTiVillage, ARTiKids activities like Steamroller Art, and the youth-oriented ARTiCenter Stage. Plus, of course, food vendors to keep everyone happy. New this year: plein air painting. Mayo Park (behind Mayo Civic Center), 30 Civic Center Drive SE, Rochester, MN
Learn more at Rochestermnarts.com