The 43rd Annual Shelby Township Art Fair returns Aug. 8 and Aug. 9 at River Bends Park, offering a full weekend of art, entertainment and family-friendly activities. The free event runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day.
Hosted by the Shelby Township Parks, Recreation and Maintenance Department, the Art Fair draws more than 15,000 visitors each year and features over 100 artists in a juried competition, along with marketplace vendors, live music, food and interactive activities. Guests can explore a wide range of artwork from local, regional and national artists, including paintings, photography, jewelry and more.
“The Shelby Township Art Fair has become a summer tradition that brings our community together year after year,” Parks, Recreation and Maintenance Director Joe Youngblood said. “It is a chance to support talented artists, enjoy live entertainment and spend time with family and friends in one of our most beautiful parks.”
Families can enjoy a variety of returning favorites throughout the weekend. The Kids Zone offers exciting attractions for a $2 entry fee per child, including a rock wall, accelerator slide and the “Adrenaline Rush” experience. A free kids’ area will also be available with additional activities. The Shelby Township Police and Fire Departments, along with the Burgess-Shadbush Nature Center, will also be on site. The event continues to support local organizations, including the Shelby Township Lions Club.
The popular Better Pie Baking Contest returns on Aug. 8, inviting bakers of all ages to showcase their skills. A junior category is available for participants under 13. Pies must be submitted by 12:45 p.m., with judging beginning at 1 p.m. In celebration of America’s 250th anniversary, we are adding a patriotic twist to this year’s competition. While all other contest rules remain the same, the Creativity judging category has been replaced with Patriotism. Pies will be judged in three categories: Appearance, Taste, and Patriotism.
"Being trusted by my neighbors to help manage the township is the ultimate honor of serving as Township Supervisor, but judging the Better Pie contest is a very close second," Township Supervisor Rick Stathakis said. "Our bakers never disappoint when it comes to creativity, so I'm looking forward to seeing how they channel that talent into patriotic entries as we celebrate America 250."
Live entertainment will take place throughout the weekend, featuring a mix of local favorites and tribute performances, furthering the township’s “Through the Years” Summer Concert Series and celebrating community traditions and shared experiences across generations in recognition of America 250.
In addition to art and entertainment, attendees can enjoy a variety of food vendors offering something for every taste, from savory favorites to sweet treats.
River Bends Park, located at 5700 22 Mile Road between Shelby and Ryan roads, provides a scenic setting with ample parking and free shuttle service. Shuttles will run from Woodall Park near the Burgess-Shadbush Nature Center at 4101 River Bends Drive. Visitors may also walk to the event using the River Bends Bridge.
The event is made possible thanks to the generous support of sponsors, including Michigan United Credit Union, Pietila Family Agency, and Badalamenti-Ferlito Orthodontics. Additional sponsorship opportunities are still available.
