The 42nd Annual Shelby Township Art Fair takes place Aug. 9–10 at River Bends Park. The free fair runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on both days, providing plenty of time to enjoy the art, entertainment, and food.

Hosted by the Shelby Township Parks, Recreation and Maintenance Department, the fair attracts more than 15,000 visitors and features over 100 artists competing in the juried competition, along with marketplace vendors, live music, delicious food, and a variety of activities. Attendees can explore exhibits showcasing work from local, regional, and national artists, including paintings, photography, jewelry, and more.

“The Shelby Township Art Fair showcases the best of our community,” Parks, Recreation, and Maintenance Director Joe Youngblood said. “From the artwork to the activities and entertainment, it brings people together and reflects the spirit of Shelby Township.”

The 3rd Annual Shelby Township Art Fair 5K Run/Walk kicks off the festivities on Aug. 7 at River Bends Park. This event features timed and untimed 5K options on a scenic course combining trails and paved paths for runners, walkers, and even dogs to enjoy an active and fun start to the art fair weekend.

The race begins at 6:30 p.m., with check-in starting at 4 p.m. at the Hickory Grove Pavilion. Participants are encouraged to register early at eastsideracingcompany.com to guarantee their preferred shirt size. Registration is $35.

In addition to the visual arts, families can enjoy a wide range of activities. With a $2 entry fee per child, the Kids Zone offers exciting attractions, including a rock wall, an accelerator slide, and an “Adrenaline Rush” experience. A free kids’ area will also include a panel bouncer and other engaging activities. Additionally, the Shelby Township Police and Fire Departments, as well as the Burgess-Shadbush Nature Center, will be on hand. The event supports local causes, such as the Shelby Township Lions Club.

The Art Fair will also be a culinary delight, with a variety of food vendors offering something for every palate. From hot dogs by MC Doggonit to backyard barbecue from Smokin’ with Crawford, attendees will find plenty to enjoy. Sweet treats like bubble tea, and freshly made kettle corn will also be available.

One of the event’s highlights is the 2025 Better Pie Baking Contest, taking place on Aug. 9. Bakers are invited to submit their best pies for a chance to win prizes, with a junior category for bakers under 13 years old. Pies must be submitted by 12:45 p.m., and judging begins at 1 p.m. Participants and spectators alike enjoy the culinary creativity on display.

New to the fair this year, brothers Erik and Israel Nordin from the Detroit Design Center will attend to discuss their latest project, The Beacon Tree, a sculpture planned for installation at the Shelby Township Civic Center Campus. The Nordin brothers are the artists behind many public sculptures throughout the region, including The Seed, which stands in the roundabout at Dodge Park and Utica roads in Sterling Heights, and the Detroit Menorah, displayed in Campus Martius Park during the city’s Hanukkah observance.

“We’re very excited to have the Nordin brothers take part in the Art Fair this year, and they’ll be there to discuss the new Beacon Tree sculpture,” Shelby Township DDA Chairman Greg Gagnon said. “We’ll have renderings of what The Beacon Tree will look like, along with information on how members of the public can support the project.”

The event will include live entertainment, with performances scheduled on the main stage and near the Hickory Grove Pavilion. Acts include local favorites such as The Wayback Machine and Captain Fantastic – Elton John Tribute, promising lively music and entertainment for all.

River Bends Park, located at 5700 22 Mile Road between Shelby and Ryan Roads, offers a scenic and spacious setting with ample parking and free shuttle services. Shuttles run from Woodall Park near the Burgess-Shadbush Nature Center at 4101 River Bends Drive, east of Ryan Road and south of 22 Mile Road. Visitors can also walk to the fair using the River Bends Bridge.

The Shelby Township Art Fair is made possible thanks to the generous support of our sponsors: Faygo, Christian Financial Credit Union, Simply Essential Massage & Bodyworks, and Michigan United Credit Union.

For more information, visit shelbyartfair.org, shelbytwp.org/summer, or contact the Shelby Township Parks, Recreation and Maintenance Department at 586-731-0300.