91Ô­´´

Anyone thinking of going to Arts Alive should make sure to leave themselves plenty of time to take in all the art and attractions.

The 29th arts festival in 91Ô­´´ City brings together more than 200 visual and performing artists for what has become a destination event in the Lower Mainland.

The festival, organized by the Downtown 91Ô­´´ Business Association (DLBS), brings together visual artists of so many different genres and techniques.

Most of the participants – both artisan vendors and musicians – are from right here in the Lower Mainland, though some will be coming from around the province.

"We’re passionate about keeping things local and celebrating the incredible talent in our own backyard," said Chris Parsons, the DLBA executive director.

The festival takes place Saturday, Aug. 16, on the one-way section of Fraser Highway between 204 and 206 Streets between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. Admission is free.

This is a curated arts festival.

"Our team carefully reviews each submission to ensure we’re curating a vibrant, diverse, and inspiring mix of artisans that represent the talent across our region," he explained.

Arts Alive is first and foremost a celebration of visual art and handcrafted work.

"We’re proud to feature painters, photographers, woodworkers, jewelry makers, quilters, sculptors, and more. We receive hundreds of applications each year, and a core part of our selection criteria is that all products must be handmade and Canadian-produced – no imports nor mass-produced items. It’s a key part of what makes Arts Alive such a unique and high-quality event," Parsons said.

There are some booths tucked in among the visual artists that people may want to keep watch for.

"We’re proud to feature several incredible community groups again this year," Parsons said. "These booths are always a highlight and a great reminder of how art brings people together."

Inclusion 91Ô­´´ will be showcasing paintings and handmade jewelry created by clients. Big Brothers Big Sisters of 91Ô­´´ will be bringing youth-led art and entrepreneurial projects, and New Directions English Language School will be displaying paintings and crafts created by students who come from all over the world.

Expect to see several artists on site demonstrating how they create.

"They’re always a big hit," Parson said of the demonstrations. "It’s a fantastic opportunity for festival-goers to engage with artists and see the creative process in action."

During the application process, artists are asked if they’d like to demonstrate their craft live during the festival. Many choose to do so – whether it’s painting, carving, or creating jewelry – and are happy to answer questions and showcase their techniques throughout the day.

Performing arts have always been part of the festival.

"We dedicate time to attending performances, reviewing music submissions, and working with local musicians to build a stage schedule that brings great energy to the event," he said. "This year’s musical lineup includes everything from classic rock to soulful roots – artists like Vancouver’s Odyssey and Sarah Smith, who is fresh off her European tour, will help keep the energy high all day long."

There are two main stages with back-to-back entertainment all day. There are many new names on the roster of entertainment this year.

"We love to switch things up and give new and emerging talent a chance to shine. Our goal is to complement the artistic experience with great live music that adds to the energy of the day. We curate our stage lineup with local talent in mind and try to cover a range of genres and sounds," he said.

Main Stage

10 to 11 a.m.: Devon Webber + Richard Sera Duo (rock, dance, and more)

11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Odyssey ('70s rock)

1:30 to 3 p.m.: Sarah Smith Band (indie rock)

3:30 to  5 p.m.: The Matinée (roots rock)

McBurney Plaza Stage

10 to 11 a.m.: David Capper (multi-instrumentalist, various genres)

11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Robyn Froese Duo (soul and more)

1:30 to 3 p.m.: Annika and Pete (from Top 40 to classic tunes)

3:30 to 5 p.m.: Dave Faber Duo (various genres including country)

A popular feature of Arts Alive is the likelihood of coming face to face with a roving performer.

"We’re bringing in over 25 roving performances this year," Parsons said. "From stilt walkers and jugglers to roller skating trick artists and bubble blowers, you never know what (or who) you’ll see around the next corner. Every act is carefully selected for quality, character, and that wow-factor that makes Arts Alive feel like a living, moving show."

Families will also want to seek out McBurney Plaza.

"Our newly expanded Family Zone in McBurney Plaza is packed with all-day fun: free face painting, glitter tattoos, a prize spin wheel from Discover 91Ô­´´ City, live music, a roaming photo booth, bubble artists, Cosmo Circus, and some amazing roving performers who’ll bring interactive energy to every corner," Parsons noted. "It’s a great place to take a break, hang out, and enjoy the festival vibe with your kids.

With so many people downtown, festival attendees will want to do some advance planning. Transit and biking are good options as there will be street closures.

There is free parking all around the event site, including along 56 Avenue, Douglas Crescent, and on the east and west sides of Fraser Highway, Parsons said. The one-way portion of Fraser Highway will be closed to vehicle traffic during the festival, turning the area into a pedestrian-friendly zone.

The food of which he speaks ranges from the many downtown eateries to food trucks at the arts festival site.

"We’ve got four fantastic food trucks offering everything from plant-based eats to Mexican fare, and of course, Downtown 91Ô­´´ is full of amazing restaurants and cafés to explore," he said.

Rain or shine, the event goes ahead but the organizers watch the forecasts and take an steps necessary to keep everyone safe.

Typically the event has sunny weather. Parsons advised people to dress for the weather and bring a water bottle.

"There will be a free water station on site for refills," he noted. "Whether you’re shopping for handmade art, discovering a new musician, or just soaking up the festival energy, Arts Alive is a full-day experience that has something for everyone."