Known as the Nation's oldest city, St. Augustine, Florida, is an area with a vibrant culture and a long storied history. Founded roughly 450 years ago by European settlers, St. Augustine still features a Euro-theme with some of the most scenic vistas in all of Florida. From the brick lined streets and museums to the historical sites and buildings, you're taking a walk through history as you enjoy all the modern activities and events the area has to offer. Over two million visitors make their way to St. Augustine each year to soak in the fantastic year-round weather and the many sights and sounds. Aside from all the historical locations, the downtown area is rich with activity. Restaurants, shops, theaters, bars, clubs, and tour services are just a few things you’ll find as you explore this great city. If you’re in need of a outdoor adventure, you’ll find things to do such as kayaking, fishing, hiking, surfing, biking, horseback riding and just about any fun outdoor activity you can imagine. The artisan and crafting community in St. Augustine is vibrant and always growing. The friendly atmosphere mixed with the area's natural beauty have attracted talented artists from all over the country. You can see their works in the different galleries and art exhibits in town, as well as the prominent art event, The Old Town Art Show.
Five years ago, St. Augustine was in need of a gathering to exhibit the artistic works of local and national artists and crafters. The Old Town Art Show has more than fulfilled this need. Twice a year about 125 artists from St. Augustine and as far away as the West Coast, make their way to the Old Town Art Show to showcase their creations. This is not a show where you’ll find mass produced items or major vendors. The arts and crafts here are handmade and unique works of art that are painstakingly made by dedicated professionals. The artists themselves are available to talk about their art and it's a great way to meet new people who are also interested in the art community. This is a family friendly show and kids will enjoy the vibrant atmosphere as well as all the fun activities in St. Augustine. If you like art, beautiful weather, and historic surroundings, then the Old Town Art Show is the ideal event for you. We interviewed Lynn Wettach, the Show Director for the Old Town Art Show, to talk about this great event in St. Augustine.
RAL: Tell me a little bit about the event?
LW: This is the fifth year of the Old Town Art Show, produced by Holiday Art Shows. We bring in from 100 to 125 extraordinary artists from all around the nation. The event attracts people to come into St. Augustine from all over Florida and the Southeast U.S. They are demographically mostly families, ladies, and couples, but everyone is encouraged to attend. With so many unique items, we definitely have a little of something for everyone. We hold two annual shows, the Spring show takes place on Palm Sunday weekend and our winter show is the weekend after Christmas.
RAL: What makes the event unique?
LW: Our artists! They are real artists who create real art. They come from Northeast Florida and from as far away as Maine and California to exhibit at our show. Plus, you get the opportunity to see the beautiful and historic St. Augustine community.
RAL: Take me through a typical day at the art show.
LW: Attendees get the chance to meet and greet with the artists. It's a wonderful opportunity to talk with professional artists and learn about their creative process and what inspires their work. It’s a perfect place for spreading art awareness.
Art is not all you’ll find here. We have a wonderful Old Time Diner food truck, plus everyone's favorite kettle corn, Chic Crepes (absolutely delicious and made fresh right before your eyes), mini donuts, lemonade, roasted nuts, and the usual festival food.
RAL: What can visitors expect to find for local lodging.
LW: St. Augustine is a go-to destination for many people during this time of year. Be sure to make your plans and reservations in advance because many of the local lodging options fill up quickly. Some of the more popular lodging options include Beacher’s Lodge Oceanfront Suites, Casa De Suenos Bed and Breakfast and Holiday Isle Oceanfront Resort.
RAL: What does the Old Town Art Show mean to the community?
LW: It brings folks to the downtown area who not only patronize the Old Town Art Show, but also visit the all different establishments in our beautiful downtown. From the restaurants and shops to the hotels and gas stations, everyone benefits from extra people being in the community. We also take pride is raising art awareness in St. Augustine. We are in a unique position where we can unite artists, residents, and visitors together under the banner of art.
RAL: Why should people come to your event.
LW: The Old Town Art Show is a wonderful event to visit with friends and family. You can purchase quality artwork from gorgeous jewelry to fabulous paintings to funky, fun sculpture and mixed media. The perfect remembrance of your visit to the Nation's Oldest City.
For more information about the Old Town Art Show please visit their website.