The Washington Business Improvement District’s annual Arts, Sweets and Crafts Festival offers visitors a look at some of the finest original art works in the region. It also offers a lot more to do and see!

This year’s event is scheduled for Saturday April 29 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. It is free to the public.

In addition to the dozens of art, sweets and craft vendors, the Warren Arts, Sweets, and Crafts Festival”, held in Downtown Washington, features live music, kids activities, demonstrations, and great food. Local establishments William’s Irish Tavern and Scotty’s Tavern will be serving up a variety of craft beers that day as well.

Many participating downtown businesses will have their own displays and special sales.  Students from Warren County Community College will have poetry and fiction readings from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. and among the live musical performers will be Claire Reynolds, The Outcrops, and Kinderhook. Mrs. North Jersey, Renee Smith, will be making a special appearance during the day.

There will also be stuff for the kids! Diana Dove will be doing a craft activity with children from 11:30-1:30 and 2-4. The first two hours are sponsored by Washington Borough Clean Communities and the second session is sponsored by the Warren County Clean Communities.

This year’s event is sponsored by Warren Hills Memorial Home, PNC Bank, Investors Bank, and Williams Irish Tavern.

Cash prizes will be awarded to the Top 3 Winning artists (original works only) – First, Second and People’s Choice, with a top prize of $250. This event has grown in the past four years, with dozens of participating artists and vendors and Washington businesses and more drawing large crowds throughout the day.

The Arts, Sweets, and Craft Festival takes place along Washington Avenue (Route 57) throughout the Downtown and runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The music takes place in the Pocket Park by the Town Clock.

Only artists displaying original works are eligible for cash prizes. All art styles are welcome, from painting to pottery to jewelry and everything in between. Re-sale vendors are also welcome to register for the festival. Vending spots are 10×10. If you are interested in registering please contact the WBID office, 908-689-4800, or visit www.washingtonbid.org

This event has been a sell out with vendors for the past two years. Pre-registration is highly recommended.