The original arts and crafts show of Windsor-Essex County, Amherstburg Art by The River is getting ready to celebrate its 52nd year on Saturday, August 25th and Sunday, August 26th.

Amherstburg Art by The River is a fundraiser for the Gibson Gallery held every year on the grounds of Fort Malden National Historic Park. A well-loved end-of-summer tradition always held on the weekend before Labour Day, it has been bringing together talented artists and passionate art lovers along the beautiful waterfront since 1967.

Today, Amherstburg Art by The River has grown into the largest arts and crafts show in the county, attracting between 8,000 and 9,000 people over the two days of the event. This fun, family-friendly event gives you the opportunity to find unique, original art that you won’t see anywhere else and to check out the local restaurants and shopping opportunities at the end of the day. Organizers report that 2017 was the best show ever, and hopes are high for 2018.

The showcase regularly hosts over 150 artists and exhibitors from all across the province. Amherstburg Art by The River provides an important opportunity for these artists not only to showcase and sell their creations but to simply interact with the public face-to-face. It allows them to gauge current buying trends and even receive commissioned work. Attending the event also reminds the public of just how important it is to have art in our lives.

Live musical entertainment featuring bands and musicians creates a fantastic ambiance which keeps visitors on their feet and which energizes the artistic demonstrations. Fort Malden further adds to the whole experience with historical re-enactments and historical music demonstrations. You can also take a guided tour of the grounds to learn a little bit about the local history while you are there.

This year, the showcase will be open from 10 am to 5 pm on both days, with an admission price of $5 per person. Children under 12 years of age may attend for free as long as they are accompanied by a paying adult. Babysitting and fun children’s programs are available as well. If your child enjoys painting and drawing, then the children’s workshop will allow them to create their own beautiful work of art.

Amherstburg Art by The River is a great opportunity to come out and support the community. All money raised during the event goes directly back into the Gibson Art Gallery, which is a public art gallery run by a volunteer board. The Gibson Art Gallery also takes part in charitable works. Even if you don’t live in the area and are just stopping by for a visit, you’ll know your money is going to a good cause.

What better way to spend a weekend than by strolling along the water, meeting local artists, and possibly picking up a unique craft or piece of artwork to take home? If you’re looking for something to do in Ontario at the end of August this year, Amherstburg Art by The River should be at the top of your list.