The Deep Ellum Arts Festival draws a variety of artists from across the nation, but organizers try to ensure the art is cutting-edge to fit the character of the Dallas entertainment district.
And this year, there are new features that involve the community even more — particularly a Taste of Deep Ellum section with neighborhood restaurants.
“Our goal every year is to add a little more of Deep Ellum to the festival,” said Sean Fitzgerald, president of the Deep Ellum Community Association.
The festival, now in its 17th year, runs from Friday evening to 7 p.m. Sunday. The juried art show will feature 130 artists. More than 90 bands and singer/songwriters, including a surprise guest to be announced Friday afternoon, will perform. And there will be food booths.
Here are some of the other features:
Taste of Deep Ellum: When Deep Ellum was really booming, restaurants generally were too busy to be directly involved in the festival, said Stephen Millard, president of Main Events International, which runs the festival each year. Now, more restaurants signed up for a village of Deep Ellum food vendors. Expect Asian dishes, barbecue, chili, pizza and more.
Art Bar: This area features adult-oriented live art, such as dance, body painting and spoken word. Performers will include Joshua, Jerod and Isaac Davies, brothers who create art out of just about anything under the name “Three of One Arts.”
ArtLoveMagic: The Dallas art co-op will host interactive activities in “ArtLoveMagic Artist Alley.” Some of the artists will show their work and create new pieces with the help of festivalgoers. “It’s very cool that people can talk to the artist as they’re creating,” said Deborah Driscoll, music director for Art-LoveMagic.
Pet parade: Money raised at a pet parade at noon Sunday will benefit the Bark Park Central dog park. If you need a pet for the parade, there will be some available for adoption.
Weather: Organizers are predicting a good year for the festival, as well as great weather (unlike a few years back when it snowed). The forecast is for lows in the mid-60s, highs around 80 and a mix of sun and clouds.
For more information: Go to deepellumartsfestival.com for details, schedules and a festival map.
