Doylestown, Pennsylvania, is a one-of-a-kind vacation destination, located just an hour drive north of Philadelphia in the beautiful confines of Bucks County.
Here you’ll encounter a spectrum of attractions and activities, including everything from castles to fine dining. The minute you enter downtown Doylestown, the beautiful architecture and lush landscaping will grab your attention. The city is home to a collection of award winning eating establishments including Pag's Pub, and Jules Thin Crust. The shopping here is held in high regard and brings many visitors to the city. You're in for a unique experience whether you're visiting the boutique shops in the historic downtown area or you're trying one of the popular stores at The Shops at Valley Square. Local archaeologist Henry Mercer built two castles in Doylestown in the early 1900’s. The Mercer Museum houses Henry Mercer’s extensive collection of historical artifacts. The city also plays to host to a series of great annual community events, such as the Doylestown Arts Festival.
Returning for it’s 25th year, the Doylestown event is not just an art festival, but a family friendly celebration of community and a wonderful way to close out the summer. This year's gathering will bring 160 juried artists and their unique handmade crafts to the city. Live demonstrations can be found all over the festival including face painting, pottery demos, custom scarves, henna art and more. You won't need to look far to find one of the five live music stages, where a variety of acts will be performing during the event. You’ll love two full food courts, plus the great downtown restaurants available for meals or quick snacks throughout the celebration. Let the beautiful surroundings of Doylestown and the fun activites of the festival set the tone for an unforgetable getaway. We got the chance to interview Paul Boger, Director of the Doylestown Arts Festival, to talk about this art themed spectacular.
RAL: How long has the event been running?
PB: 2016 marks the 25th anniversary of the Doylestown Arts Festival.
RAL: How many annual participants do you draw?
PB: We estimate between 15,000 and 20,0000 visitors this year. We feature 160 artists, at least 10 food vendors, between 25 and 30 bands, and 10+ community organizations/businesses participating.
RAL: What is the typical demographic makeup of the event? Children? Families? Couples?
PB: The festival draws all ages and a wide variety of demographics. We have children, families, young couples, students, and seniors.
RAL: What makes this event unique?
PB: The festival is held on the streets of historic Doylestown. It’s free to attend and features a variety of artists from local regions and across the nation. 2016 introduces a varied selection of live demos and interactive arts, all organized with love by a volunteer committee of local art enthusiasts.
RAL: Take me through the activities of a day at the event.
PB: Here are some aspects of the event people are sure to enjoy:
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160 artists spanning from fine art, photography, and pottery to glass, jewelry, recycled arts and more
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Five stages of live music with acts spanning the entire weekend
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Two food courts offering a variety of food and drink options for all tastes and styles
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A selection of live demos and interactive arts throughout the festival
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A wide variety of local businesses, restaurants, and galleries that line the streets of the festival
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On Sunday, the Thompson Bucks County Classic pro cycling races join us around the festival (buckscountyclassic.com)
RAL: What can an attendee expect to find for local lodging?
PB: The Doylestown Inn and Hargrave House are both located in Doylestown, but book very quickly that weekend.
RAL: What does the event mean to the community?
PB: Since 1991, the festival has been drawing visitors from across the country to beautiful downtown Doylestown. The festival is celebrated for supporting local artists and driving business to local establishments.
RAL: Does the event support any special causes in the community.
PB: All proceeds benefit Discover Doylestown, a non-profit volunteer organization of local residents and businesses dedicated to celebrating our community and creating lasting traditions. The organization's signature events include the Doylestown Arts Festival, Doylestown 5k Race, Taste of Doylestown, Spooktacular Parade, Annual Christmas Tree Lighting & Holiday Celebrations, Seasonal Decorations, and more!
RAL: Why should people come to your event?
PB: The Doylestown Arts Festival is one of the largest and most memorable events in Bucks County. Alongside the Bucks County Classic, it is the biggest weekend in the region.
For more information about the Doylestown Arts Festival, please visit their website.