MARLBOROUGH – The 25th annual spring Paradise City Arts Festival in Marlborough will be held March 17, 18 and 19 at the Royal Plaza Trade Center.
Paradise City’s show in Marlborough, often called “the jewel of craft shows,” has been a New England tradition since 1998.
“You don’t get any more ‘small business’ than an independent artist or craftsperson designing and making work one at a time in his or her studio,” said Director Linda Post.
Post noted that this movement began as part of the counterculture in the 1960s or 1970s, but it has now taken ahold of a new generation throughout the country.
“People are looking for the personal touch, the conversations with artists that are a vital part of what makes festivals like Paradise City valuable to the arts community in the 21st century,” Post said. “When you bring something home from a show like this, there’s a narrative to it. These stories give an extra dimension to the objects that surround you in your home.”
Each booth offers one-of-a-kind and limited edition work by artists and makers. The festival will welcome artists from near and far to the show.
Specifically, there will be 175 juried artists from 15 states (and one from Germany) exhibiting original works in painting, art glass, ceramics, decorative fiber, fine furniture, jewelry, leather, metal, mixed media, photography, large-scale sculpture, wearable art and wood.
There will also be live music, special exhibits, including “Playing with Fire” in the Sculpture Café and two dining options. The coat check will benefit the Marlborough Public Schools Music Association through voluntary donations.
The festival will take place at Royal Plaza Trade Center. It is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. March 17; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. March 18; and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on March 19.
Tickets cost $16 for adults ($12 to $14 when paying online), $8 students, $18 weekend pass and children under 12 get in for free.
There will be free parking and a shuttle that runs to and from the adjoining parking lots.
Complete show and travel information, online advance ticketing and discounted admissions: www.paradisecityarts.com. For more information, call 800-511-9725.
