Cherry Creek Arts Festival an Independence Day tradition in Denver

The Cherry Creek Arts Festival comes to Denver in the heat of each summer just as surely as fireworks on the Fourth of July. In a way, this pageant of visual, culinary and performing arts, which annually draws more than 350,000 visitors and more than 200 artists from all over the world, is a kind of fireworks all its own. 

Visitors can view and buy various media, from photography to jewelry and  fine paintings to sculptures. Want to buy a classic Japanese raku tea bowl or a beautiful handblown vase for your curio cabinet? How about a one-of-a-kind necklace of colorful semi-precious stones?  You're sure to find both here, along with hundreds of other truly unique pieces.

Of course, you’ll find more than just art at the festival, which is held in the Cherry Creek Shopping District. A variety of international tastes await you on Culinary Avenue. From   usual fare, like pizza and fries, to authentic Carribbean, Indian and Thai cuisine, there's sure to be something to cure the grumbly tummy you're likely to get while enjoying the seemingly endless art displays.

On Artivity Avenue, adults can join their kids in interactive projects like making a mosaic mural or animal masks. At the artist demonstration area, you can catch a lecture or watch one of a dozen artists at work.
 

A variety of musical acts will also be on hand. This year, local band, the Delta Sonics, will be playing Chicago blues and swing numbers. There will also be tributes to the Eagles and Santana, so be prepared to get your groove on.
 

Be sure to catch the great fireworks display on the evening of July 4.

The Cherry Creek Arts Festival takes place in the Cherry Creek North Shopping District between Second and Third avenues and on the six streets between Clayton and Steele streets.

Painting; art; sculpture; festival; food; free; music; photography; metalwork; mixed media;