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 28 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, and great food. Local pubs William’s Irish Tavern and Scotty’s Stadium Club 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. Live musical performers will be by the Olive Mountain Duo featuring Steve Kirchuk and Jan Persson, the Grover Kemble Trio, and the Michaela McClain Band.

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. In addition,  Pinot’s Palette of Hackettstown will be hosting a Children’s Banner Painting project, also free for kids.

This year’s event is sponsored by PNC Bank,Warren Hills Memorial Home, Warren County Dental Center, William’s Irish Tavern, and Scotty’s Stadium Club.

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

Two Downtown businesses will also be showcasing the artwork of various regional artists in their galleries: M Galleries and Kathy’s Kove.

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.