A successful 2021 Art-a-Fest is officially in the books!
48th annual Art-a-Fest -- Charles City, IA -- August 21st 2021

This festival fulfills an important role in the community and surrounding areas by supporting and celebrating local artists. Our goal is to make the arts accessible to all members of our community during this one-day, free event! 

Each year our committee works hard to make the event a success for exhibitors and shoppers. This year, 26 artists offering a variety of artwork were set up on the lawns of Central Park. Charles City native Anastasia Chloe Parsons was this years judge, and awarded the following prizes:

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• 1st Place - Molly Barrett

• 2nd Place - Noah Orthel

• 3rd Place - Michelle Juhl

• Honorable Mentions - James Kerns, Meredith Hamm, Madalyn Vorrie, Don Semelhack, & Connie Rodgers

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Special guest Joan Semelhack also awarded artist Molly Barret the Special Award for most creative/unique display in honor of her mother, Jean Semelhack.

Participants and shoppers alike enjoyed the sounds of our performing artists Christine Cleveland, Sonny Diesburg, Polka Prost, & Sam Crosser during Art-a-Fest.

Some local food vendors joined us in Central Park during Art-a-Fest. Hy-Vee served burgers, brats, and dogs fresh off the grill for lunch. The Shiver N Squirrel served specialty shaved ice treats, mini donuts, and frozen cappuccinos. Tellurian Brewing served craft brews by the draft.

There were all kinds of free games & interactive art activities for everyone to enjoy! Jumbo yard games and sidewalk chalk were available in front of the Arts Center. Volunteers helped kids make slime, paint rocks, and create spin-art in Central Park. 

Jill Streich

Karla Freidrich

Harley Wilson

Joanna Thompson

Jake Gassman

Sam Kiewel

Alec Goodlight

Jordan Schmidt

Dan Nolan

Steve Schiller

Lenny Weisberger

Par Holmberg

Lillith​