Buffalo Rising Online

Jun 7th 2005, 12:28am By queenseyes

June brings out some of the best that Buffalo has to offer. In the preserved setting of historic Allentown, artists, patrons,and spectators gather from all across North America to converge on, and share in the Allentown Village Society's presentation of the Allentown Art Festival. Initially started in 1957 as a grassroots campaign for local artists to share and exhibit their crafts, the Allentown Art Festival has grown into a formidable attraction and economic boost for the area. The collection of people and sights attracts approximately 400,000 visitors to the Elmwood/Allentown district for one weekend each year. Today, this festival is one of the largest in the country. As the festival has grown, so has the caliber of artists that it attracts. The prize awards for the exhibitors submitting their work has reached an estimated amountof $16,000. -Excerpt from BRM writer, J.D. Lesses

If you have never attended this festival, put it on your list of things to do this weekend. It is astounding to see the hoards of people that congregate in downtown Buffalo to take part in this event. The streets are literally transformed into a flowing sea of people. And speaking of people, I am telling you right now that there are some serious sights to behold. All walks of life can be found co-mingling with the art. The folks attending the AAF can be just as colorful as the art they are observing. Remember, it is Allentown. This is one of the best people watching events in the city. If you didn't know, there is an artery of the festival that cannot be missed. This enclave of artists can be found on Allen between Elmwood and Wadsworth. It is at Allentown West that you will find a group of local artists that have added a vibrant and passionate element to the festival. It is also here where revelry runs strong, as local musicians and entertainers parade in front of some of our favorite local pubs and bars. Here are a couple dos and donts. Do bring a lot of cash to support the artists. Don't bring your dog and make him or her suffer in the heat. It's not worth the attention, and most people look at you sideways for being an irresponsible pet owner. Do stop into the unique shops that have made a lifelong investment in the neighborhood. Then, continue to support them throughout the rest of the year. Don't forget your suntan lotion. And do yourself a favor and grab a sitdown lunch at one of the great eateries along the way.