The annual Waterloo Arts Festival is a vibrant and lively day of music, art and demonstrations that grows bigger and more exciting each year. With 2,000 visitors expected to wander through downtown Waterloo, there will be something to catch every eye, from innovative storefront exhibits to dazzling street performers. With some of the city’s best music close at hand, and great food to sample from local restaurants, the event caters to diverse tastes, and lets residents and visitors explore an eclectic array of buyable and unusual art.

Some of the popular features of last year are returning, including public art installations and exhibits that will run through the month of August; children’s activities with custom installations; live music presented by MUSIC SAVES and the Beachland Ballroom; performance art, poetry and dance as well as merchant booths.

But in the spirit of growth, new and creative features are offered each year. Some new twists this year include festival power provided by New America Energy, a bio-fuels enterprise that will help take the festival “green”, with all bio-diesel generators and demonstrations of alternative fuel sources, along with organic foods and goods from local providers.

Look for surprise visits of popular highlights from regional events such as Parade the Circle, the Cardboard Festival, and Ingenuity. Other creative collaborations with Cleveland Rides, Ohio City Bike CoOp and Clevelanders in Motion will ensure lots of great activities for children and families, as well as unique opportunities to tour this emerging arts district on foot or via pedal power.