The Akron Arts Expo returns for the 2021 summer season, July 24-25
By Kelli Comer
Northeast Ohioans are looking forward to a fun and vibrant summer ahead with the return of outdoor events that the warmer weather brings. The Akron Arts Expo, a beloved local event celebrating its 42nd year is certain to draw art enthusiasts and local shoppers alike.
The City of Akron Recreation and Parks will host the annual Akron Arts Expo on Saturday, July 24, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday, July 25, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. “We have a lot of returning artists this year, and some exciting newcomers,” says Penny Bomba, artist coordinator for the Akron Arts Expo. “The artists are very excited to be a part of the community that this kind of show creates and to be able to sell their artwork.”
Out of an abundance of caution, the Taste of Akron and Taste of Akron Take 2 typically held on Thursday and Friday evenings are not returning for 2021 but will be back in full swing for 2022. With the opening up of this space in the park, the artist area layout has expanded to continue to offer social distancing between the booths.
“The artists have missed the environment the show creates, from seeing friends, other artists and loyal customers,” Penny notes. “It really is a community for the weekend, and in some cases it’s the only time they will see these people throughout the year. They are really looking forward to this year’s show.”
New for 2021, the Akron Arts Expo will have an updated website that will list all of the artists, their booth number at the show and their contact information. “This will allow the public to see who will be at the show and where to find them,” explains Penny. “We are hopeful that this will encourage the public who are unable to attend the show to express their support to the artists and purchase fabulous artwork from them directly.”
Food vendors will be onsite during the show and for an additional hour afterward on Saturday so patrons, artists and the public can stay to enjoy the park while grabbing a bite to eat.
The Akron Arts Expo is a nationally recognized, juried fine arts and crafts show that features over 100 artists.
The 42nd Annual Akron Arts Expo is held at Hardesty Park in Akron, located at 1615 W. Market Street. Free parking is available on the grounds. For more information, visit AkronArtExpo.com or email recreation@akronohio.gov.