(PRINCETON, NJ) -- Princeton Makes hosts the annual Art in the Courtyard Festival on Sunday, October 12, 2025 from 11:00am to 5:00pm in the Courtyard of the Princeton Shopping Center. The festival features a curated selection of local artists, artisans and cultural institutions. The event is free and open to the public. The entire community is invited to enjoy a day of art, culture, and connection.

* For the first time, a jury of representatives from local institutions, the municipality, and area businesses will circulate throughout the festival. Their mission: to encourage artists to present their best work and to select winners. Prizes, sponsored by local businesses, will include art supplies, theater tickets, and other unique experiences.

* Local sponsors are stepping up to provide resources, awards, and visibility, reinforcing the festival’s role as a true community collaboration. Special thanks to: Northfield Bank Princeton, McCarter Theater, Jerry's Artarama, Color me Mine Princeton for their generous sponsorships.

* This year’s event will feature a tango dance performance, a fashion show led by Princeton Makes Artists, and two performances by local musicians.

* The Blue Bears French Cafe will be serving delicious sweet & savory crepes and fresh drinks, from the clocktower kiosk.  The crepes will be made by Jacky, a french crêpe master visiting Princeton for the event.  The Blue Bears is on a mission to break down social barriers by providing meaningful employment opportunities for persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

“By bringing together artists, businesses, cultural institutions, and community leaders, this year’s festival is about more than local art on display — it’s about creating a shared experience that reflects the spirit of Princeton,” said Adriana Groza, festival organizer.  “I’m thankful for the Princeton Makes Artist Cooperative and Princeton Shopping Center for playing key roles in organizing, promoting, and ensuring the success of this year’s festival.”

The festival welcomes the public to experience the creative energy of Princeton and the region.

Princeton Makes is a cooperative comprised of 37 local artists who work across a range of artistic genres, including painting, drawing, stained glass, sculpture, textiles, and jewelry. Customers will be able to support local artists by shopping for a wide variety of art, including large paintings, prints, custom-made greeting cards, stained glass lamps and window hangings, jewelry in a variety of designs and patterns, and more.