Creativity Shines at the New Hope Arts and Crafts Festival

Whether you're an art connoisseur or simply enjoy spending an afternoon admiring the talent of skilled artists, you'll want to check out the New Hope Arts and Crafts Festival. This two-day juried show in late September is set against the backdrop of the beautiful Delaware River in New Hope, Pennsylvania, a short drive from the Inn at Bowman's Hill. The New Hope Arts and Crafts Fair has been a Bucks County favorite for 29 years — and it gets bigger and better each year!

Hosted outdoors on the grounds of the New Hope-Solesbury High School, this year's festival runs Saturday, September 23, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, September 24, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. This is a juried show, and the level of artistry, creativity and craftsmanship on display is phenomenal. The works of art created by last year's Best of Show winner, woodworker Nick Martier, are a shining example of the skill and talent of the artists who participate in this annual event. There is $4,000 in prizes up for grabs in six categories — crafts, fiber, fine art, jewelry, mixed media, photography — as well as a Best of Show achievement.

As you stroll along from booth to booth at the New Hope Arts and Crafts Festival, you can visit with painters, potters, jewelry makers, sculptors, wood and metal workers, photographers, glass blowers, and other artists who will have their masterpieces and handcrafted work on display. In fact, there will be more than 170 fine artists and craftspeople from Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York and elsewhere exhibiting at the festival. Talk to the artists and learn about their inspiration, techniques, and the stories behind their work. This direct interaction with the creators will help you develop a deeper connection to the creative process and a new appreciation for the artwork itself.

The primary goal of the New Hope Arts and Crafts Festival is to continue the town's legacy as a center for creativity and artistic expression. New Hope has been recognized as an arts-and-crafts destination for over a century with its rich history as an artists' colony and the birthplace of Pennsylvania Impressionism. New Hope consistently ranks among the top small arts towns in America, attracting innovative minds seeking inspiration amidst the town's picturesque landscapes and vibrant cultural scene.        

The New Hope Arts and Crafts Festival is a celebration of human imagination, craftsmanship and community. It's a place where artists and art lovers unite in a festive atmosphere. In addition to fine arts and crafts, there will be gourmet food, live music, activities and art demonstrations. It's the perfect way to spend the last fleeting days of summer. And you just might find a piece of art to bring home with you as a reminder of your Bucks County getaway for years to come.

“Art is not what you see, but what you make others see.” —Edgar Degas