It’s hard to be nimble when you have 150,000 people in tow, but the Cherry Creek Arts Festival has maneuvered with considerable grace over the past three years as the coronavirus pandemic upended its usual operations.
And in 2021, it took the risky step of bringing the fest back, but in a scaled-down version that required complicated logistical thinking from organizers and careful planning from visitors. The fest was moved from its quaint location on the streets of Cherry Creek North to a plain and fenced-off asphalt parking lot across the street. Guests had to wear masks and make timed reservations for their visits. The art was there, for the most part, but the spirit was surely squashed.
There is no advance registration. Folks can wander in and about without restrictions and linger as long as they like. There will be music, plenty of food and familiar attractions like the Creation Station, which offers hands-on activities for kids. With the pandemic in retreat, there will be more opportunity for interaction between the artists and prospective customers, one of the fair’s true charms. As usual, the art comes in multiple formats — there are 13 categories ranging from fiber art to photography to printmaking — and at many price points. There are deals to be had, and this event is always a good place for folks who want to up the quality of their art collection while keeping their spending within budget.
The kid-friendly Creation Station returns in full-force to the Cherry Creek Arts Festival this year.