From Rochester to Buffalo, western New York is home to a number of arts and crafts shows. Indoor and outdoor events promote regional, national and international artists, artisans and craftspeople. Many shows have a festival atmosphere with musicians, food vendors and activities for families and art enthusiasts. Whether looking to purchase or just admire, arts and crafts of all types can be found at western New York's shows.
Over 400 exhibitors and thousands of visitors roam Buffalo's Allentown Historic Preservation District for the Allentown Art Festival. Beginning as a small art show in 1958, the annual festival is held in June and sponsored by the not-for-profit Allentown Village Society. Allentown is near downtown Buffalo and traces its origins to 1827. Once a neighborhood in decline, the art festival has helped to develop the area into an arts center.
Since 1970, the 100 American Craftsmen has showcased contemporary craft art. Sponsored by the Kenan Center in Lockport, a cultural and recreational center in the community, the show features arts and crafts made from leather, glass, metal, clay, wood, basketry, fiber, paper and mixed media. The event is held annually in June at the Kenan Center Arena and includes live music, a gourmet cafe, a showcase of wines from the Niagara Wine Trail, and a fine art exhibit in the 1850s Kenan House.
The Western New York Artists Group is a not-for-profit group that advocates for the arts and regional artists. The group sponsors two annual members' exhibitions in its gallery in Buffalo, one dedicated to traditional art in the winter and the other to modern works in the spring. Since 1991, the organization has also featured local artists and art at its annual Regional Artists Exhibition. In addition to sponsoring these events, the group offers educational programs and events to promote art in the community.
The Letchworth Arts and Crafts Show attracts artists from across the United States. Sponsored by the Arts Council for Wyoming County, the annual event takes place during the Columbus Day weekend at the Highbanks Recreation Area of Letchworth State Park. Over 350 artists display and sell pottery, paintings, quilts and fiber arts, jewelry, photographs, furniture, decorative paintings, dried floral pieces and other art. The event also features live entertainment and food vendors.
Park Avenue near downtown Rochester, New York, is lined with shops, pubs and restaurants, and features artistic boutiques and trendy cafes. During the first full weekend of August, Park Avenue between Alexander Street to Culver Road is transformed into an outdoor showcase of arts and crafts. The Park Avenue Summer Arts Festival attracts approximately 300 artists from the United States and Canada, as well as over 30 musical acts and outdoor dining.
