This is my first Arts Fest. Shameful, but sadly true. I have heard a lot about Arts Fest over my time here at PSU and now am finally able to experience it to the fullest. Good thing I have this handy guide to help me find my way around Arts Fest. I was however left to navigate my way around the vendors on my own.

Given that this is my first ever Arts Fest, I have spoken to many veterans as to what essential things to see at Arts Fest would be. One veteran told me to find a “guy that draws bananas in various poses”, to go play in the fountains or walk through the mist walkway on South Allen Street or drink some lemonade.

While wandering around Pattee Mall, I found one artist who’s medium was knives. Jim Parker makes knives to your:

personal taste by adding file work, exotic handle material such as mother of pearl, fossil walrus ivory mastodon ivory, stag or a variety of exotic woods.

So for those of you who like collecting knives, I would say give this guy a visit. Knives not your thing? Prefer other styles of art? I would suggest checking out Xavier Nuez out on Fairmont Ave. His contemporary style of photography really caught my eye and stood out amongst the other pieces of art. I would highly suggest giving this guy a look. While you are there I would suggest purchasing a glass of lemonade from Charlie Herlocher (age 9) at 160 Fairmont Ave. By purchasing lemonade for $1, you can help donate to Charlie’s friend Kasey who has a case of porphyria (an enzyme disorder).

Another thing I got to do was check out a vendor handing out FREE MASSAGES at the corner of South Allen and Fairmont. I felt that everything at Arts Fest is quite pricey but a free massage seemed to be just what I needed. Unfortunately, the same thought struck a lot of festival goers and the line was too long for me to contemplate standing in. I did however get a chance to take a look at a huge sand sculpture depicting the Penn Turnpike being carved out right next to the State College High football field. If you are also looking for additional free things to do at Arts Fest besides check out vendors, our Masonic Temple is holding an open house so go check it out!

Before the rain came down and washed Friday Arts Fest away, I did a get a chance to check out Ted McCloskey & The Hi-Fi’s.  This was a great addition to my Arts Fest excursion as I got to listen to a great artist. I recommend that you check out some of the bands music. I promise it is not a disappointment. The rain shut Arts Fest down, but did not dampen the spirits of the preacher out on College who enthusiastically told us we were all sinners and going to hell as our sins were not absolved. Awesome way to end an incredible day!

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