EXETER — The 7th annual Arts & Music Festival returns to Swasey Parkway Saturday featuring more than 35 local artists, including Bitter Pill, a father-daughter “rhythm and bluegrass” band.
Put on by Town Exeter Arts Music (TEAM), the festival will be held from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and will feature live music, artist vendors and activities for kids.
Scott Ruffner, executive director of TEAM, said the festival is a “kick-off" to the summer season.
This year, the festival consolidates its festivities at Swasey Parkway, diverging from last year’s dual-location format. Ruffner said the artist tents will be near the entrance by Water Street, while live music and food trucks will be near the pavilion along the river.
The Arts & Music Festival is a rain-or-shine event and is open to all. The public can enter for free, but TEAM is asking for a suggested donation of $10 per person, or $20 per family.
“We’re really hoping that the community can continue to come out and support, and give the suggested donations as well,” said Ruffner.
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Who will be performing at the Exeter Arts & Music Festival?
The main stage at the pavilion will welcome a diverse group of local musicians playing everything from jazz to classic rock.
Artty Francoeur, who wails a variety of harmonica techniques and guitar styles, will kick off the festival at 10 a.m., followed by a performance by the students of the Musical Arts Academy at 11 a.m.
Exeter’s own singer-songwriter Chad Verbeck and his trio WoodWind & Whiskey take the stage at 11:30 a.m. with their energetic blend of acoustic rock, classics, and originals. At 12:45 p.m., Slack Tide, a rock band heavily inspired by the Grateful Dead and Phish, hits the stage.
Bitter Pill, a father-daughter “rhythm and bluegrass” band, takes the stage at 2 p.m. They will be followed by Granite Grove, which features New Hampshire-based singer and guitarist Corey Brackett, performing at 3:30 p.m.
Festival puts spotlight on singer-songwriters
The singer-songwriter tent, which allows musicians to play their original songs and meet and interact with fans, will be located near the entrance to Swasey Parkway on Water Street.
The tent will feature Elijah Clark at 10 a.m., Matt Litzinger at 11 a.m., Gradyn Ard Trio at noon, Kaia Mac at 1 p.m., Mark Anderson at 2 p.m., Michael Wingate at 3 p.m. and Harry Borsh at 4 p.m.
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What will the food trucks be serving?
From Puerto Rican to classic American, food trucks and vendors will be dishing out food to satisfy more than just one's taste buds. The food vendors include Cafe El Camino, Fat Pockets, Ken’s Corn and Lexie’s Burger Bus.
Sweet treats and snack booths include Kona Ice, Igoes Pastry and Memories Ice Cream.
Who are the art vendors at the festival?
More than 30 artisans, selling everything from homemade hand-pour candles to art paintings, will be at the festival.
Kodama Creations and Stoney Water Mermaids will feature their eclectic styles of homemade jewelry, while Watercolor by Cheryl will feature her colorful and vibrant paintings.
Other artist vendors include Shella Bella Design, Kanth Craft, Wing Creations, EbTide Designs, Joy & James, Diane Crespo Fine Art, Alexandra Pires, Claudia Jasalavich, Just Jenna J Things, Mary Banach Baskets, Stuck In The Studio, Molly Glover Art, Simply Abby Designs, I’m Hooked Crochet, Tamara Deonka Art, Paintings By Meredith Reynells, Granite Firefly Candle Company, Saidypoo Art, Enchanted Fungi Creations, Nicole Ellis Art, Tiny Home Made, RLM Studios, Transatlantic Chic Studios, Revolution Retro, Nellie Baker Vintage and Marc Fournier Art.
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Are there activities for the kids?
There are plenty of activities for kids, including face painting, balloon twisters and lawn games. The Musical Arts Academy will also set up a tent to offer kids their own activities, such as games and interactive art projects.
What is the cost of admission?
Admission to the festival is free, and the suggested donation is $10 per person and $20 per family. Donations can be made ahead of the event at https://portsmouthnhtickets.com/events/2024-exeter-arts-music-fest-5-18-2024.
Is there a rain date?
The Arts & Music Festival is a rain or shine event. TEAM also suggests bringing your own blankets and lawn chairs.
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