Shelby Township art fair to return for 41st year

SHELBY TOWNSHIP — In a little more than a week, artists will be unveiling their greatest creations at the Shelby Township Art Fair, which will be celebrating its 41st anniversary this year.

The fair, which is co-hosted by Shelby Township, the Art Fair Committee and the Shelby Township Parks and Recreation Department, will be held from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Aug. 10-11 at River Bends Park.

The fair will include more than 120 artist and marketplace vendors, food, musical entertainment and more. There will also be free crafts at the Kid’s Craft and Activity Corner.

Entry and parking will be free. There will be free parking in the lot located at the park and additional free parking nearby at Woodall Park with free shuttle buses.

Joe Youngblood, Shelby Township Parks, Recreation and Maintenance Department director, said that since moving the art fair to River Bends Park, it is more popular than ever before. 

“The fair brings the perfect time to enjoy our park and all the wonderful amenities of the art fair. Bring the whole family out for many eats, arts and entertainment for all to enjoy,” he said.

The event brings more than 15,000 visitors each year to enjoy the weekend’s festivities.

Jessica Thomas, the Shelby Township Art Fair coordinator, said that from the array of artworks to the lively beats of the live bands — and the laughter echoing from the Kid’s Zone — there’s something magical about seeing it all come together.

“The dynamic fusion of vendors, delicious food and engaging activities … all in front of a beautiful River Bends Park backdrop really creates such an amazing atmosphere. We also have the (Detroit Institute of Arts) returning this year with their Art Making Experience under the Mapleview Pavilion,” she said.

The Art Making Experience provides workshops with all materials supplied.

River Bends Park is located at 5700 22 Mile Road, between Shelby and Ryan roads. The fair hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

For more information, visit shelbyartfair.org/festival.