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originally published: 09/18/2023 

Photo by Khristina Gibb

(NEW HOPE, PA) -- Greater New Hope Chamber of Commerce presents the 29th Annual New Hope Arts and Crafts Festival on Saturday, September 23 and Sunday, September 24, 2023, at New Hope - Solebury High School, 180 W. Bridge Street, in New Hope, Pennsylvania. Over 160 juried fine artists and craftspeople will exhibit using media such as oil paintings, watercolors, pastels, sculpture, fine and fun jewelry, ceramics, works in wood, fiber, furniture, wearable art, glass art, photography, outsider art and more. Festivities will also include live music all weekend long, food trucks, kids activities, hand-ons demonstrations and more.

The Festival takes place at the New Hope – Solebury High School parking lot, just a few minutes walk from the center of the business district, and there is a free bus to from the Festival parking to South Main St at the Bucks County Playhouse. Admission is a five dollar donation. Hours are Saturday, 10:00am to 5:00pm and Sunday, 10:00am to 4:00pm.

"New Hope Arts and Crafts Festival has everything from those killer oil paintings you'd want in your living room to that handcrafted jewelry piece that's just so you and more," said Chamber President Michael Sklar. "And it's not just about the art you take home; it's the stories behind them, the hands that crafted them, and the friends you make while you're here. It is one of our largest events of the year and an annual beloved New Hope and Bucks County tradition. We hope to see you there."

He added, "For nearly three decades, the New Hope Arts and Crafts Festival has been more than an event; it's a tradition. A tradition of celebrating local artists, of fostering community spirit, and of creating memories. Every year, thousands converge here, not just to buy art, but to be part of a story, a legacy."

Nestled in the heart of historic New Hope, the 29th annual Arts and Crafts Festival is set to dazzle and inspire. This event, renowned for its rich legacy, is not just a festival but a testament to the enduring spirit of creativity and community that New Hope embodies.

 

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Event highlights include:

A Kaleidoscope of Artistry: With over 150 artisans from the region and beyond, attendees will be treated to a visual feast. From handcrafted jewelry that tells a story, ceramics that are a blend of tradition and modernity, to paintings that capture the soul, there's something for every art enthusiast.

Hands-on Artistic Adventures: Dive deep into the world of art with interactive workshops. Whether you're a seasoned artist or someone looking to explore a new hobby, our skilled artists will guide you in a journey of creation and discovery.

Melodies and Moves: As you meander through the stalls, let the rhythms of local musicians set the mood. From soulful ballads to foot-tapping numbers, there's a tune for every moment. And don't miss the dance performances that bring stories to life with every move.

A Wonderland for Young Artists: At the Kids' Corner, the little ones aren't just spectators. They're artists in the making. With a range of fun and engaging activities, they'll discover the joy of creating.

Culinary Delights: New Hope is not just about art for the eyes but also a treat for the taste buds. Relish gourmet food from local stalls and sip on the finest local wines and beers.

Prizes will be awarded this year for Best in Show, Crafts, Fiber, Fine Art, Jewelry, Mixed Media and Photography.

Live entertainment will include a who's who of area musicians:

Saturday, September 23rd

11 to 11:45 – Peter Sandler

12 to 12:45 – Chris Chadwick

1 to 1:45 – Kevin Hill

2 to 2:45 – Ryan Sab

3 to 3:45 – Cara Courtney

4 to 4:45 – John Thomas

 

Sunday, September 24th

11 to 11:45 – Michael Henry Robert

12 to 12:45 – Jonnie and Rachel

1 to 1:45 – Justin Love

2 to 2:45 – TBA

3 to 3:45 – Brian Elliott

 

Advertise with New Jersey Stage for $50-$100 per month, click here for info

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Parking is behind the High School and Upper Elementary School for a five dollar donation - with parking donations supporting school activities. Enter on Bridge St at Parking Sign or at the school entrance at Hardy Bush Way at the 202 Spur-Lower York Rd near the granite statue for the Upper Elementary School Lot.  Please be Advised: $5 HANDICAPPED Parking is LIMITED for the large number of visitors. Please leave your cell phone # on the Dashboard and move your vehicle when leaving the Festival.

More parking is at Union Square, at the Railroad Station, and at meters and parking lots downtown with a free shuttle to the Festival and Parking from South Main St near the Bucks County Playhouse.  You will need $5 cash for the School lots, quarters or a credit card at Union Square, and you will need 3 quarters per hour at most meters or you can use the ParkMobile or PayByPhone App on your smartphone in many areas. Free shuttle buses run from 10:00am-6:00pm on Saturday, and 10:00am-5:00pm on Sunday to/from South Main Street Bus Stops.

Thank you to festival sponsors, including Penn Community Bank (Personal and Business Banking Solutions in Bucks County), CertaPro Painters (Professional Painters, Painting Contractors), Bucks County Magazine, Renewal by Andersen (Full Service Window and Door Replacement), Friends of the Library, Green Mountain Energy, Lambertville Helping Hands, Music Mountain Theatre and more.

Admission to the entire festival is a five dollar donation. For more information and a full list of updates, events and artists: https://www.visitnewhope.com/new-hope-arts-crafts/

The Greater New Hope Chamber of Commerce has been dedicated to promoting the success and vitality of Greater New Hope – from Peddler’s Village to Lambertville, NJ – for over 40 years. Our focus is to promote local business, attract visitors from the region, and to support the people who drive this unique destination for culture, shopping, and the arts. The Greater New Hope Chamber of Commerce is organized to advance the general welfare of the greater New Hope area by pursuing actions that will empower the community to thrive and its businesses to proper.