Richland County's biggest Arts and Crafts Festival is almost here. Sidney's 31st annual Sunrise Festival of the Arts will be Saturday, June 18, 8 a.m.-2 p.m.
The festival was started in 1990 as a way to attempt to bring some tourism to the area and, at the same time, give local artists a chance to sell their wares. It was originally held in Veteran's Memorial Park, near the middle school but was moved to downtown to allow storefront businesses a chance at the influx of people. This year it will again be on the 100 blocks of E. Main St., SE 2nd Ave., and SE 2nd St. Those streets will be closed to motor vehicles during the event. According to Chamber Director Kali Godfrey, the local businesses have found the event's new location beneficial to their sales and so, for the moment, the festival's current location is here to stay. This year, there will be a kid's corner that will feature the Army National Guard Assets and a Spider Jump inflatable set. The street dance will be in the evening, from 7 p.m.-midnight.
This year's featured artists are a husband and wife team, Alton and Ruthann Hillesland, as Hillesland Barn Quilts and More. The Hilleslands are from Sidney where they are famous for their barn quilts. They both contribute to the quilts with Alton cutting them and Ruthann painting them.
There are still sponsorship opportunities available but what is really needed is vendors. Artists, crafters, pop-up shops, food trucks, small businesses, and musicians are all encouraged to get a booth and join in the fun. Food truck booths are available for $100. A standard 10' X 10' is $60. The author's booths are only $25. Those wanting to register can do so online at http://www.sidneymt.com/newsevents/sunrise-festival-of-the-arts or in person at Sidney's Chamber of Commerce and Agriculture, 909 S. Central Ave.
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