More than a decade ago the Arts on the River Festival was conceived as a way to promote and support visual and performing arts in a family friendly atmosphere. The newly branded Arts Alive on the River Festival presented by EQT is expanding the festivals original concept and creating a venue that showcases the wealth of talent from the region along with greater opportunities for economic growth. L
ocated in the same scenic spot along the banks of the Monongahela River at Hazel Ruby McQuain Riverfront Park and Amphitheater, festivalgoers still get a taste of the natural beauty the state is known for, as well easy access to Morgantown's historic downtown businesses and hotels. As in past years, they can also count on the same great area food and wine, as well as the fest's latest addition - craft-brewed beer. In fact, there's not a part of the festival that hasn't been upgraded or fine-tuned. Big-name acts will now join hometown favorites on the main stage; and the Performing Arts Circle has been added to support area organizations and groups. Dozens of artist won't simply display and sell their work this year, several will also offer demonstrations. There will also be more activities for kids and interactive projects for the entire family. With so much to do and see, the festival could no longer fit it familiar two-day schedule. Instead, the festivities will kick off Friday evening and run through Sunday, June 8-10. This summer, come help us bring the Arts Alive on the River.
**********************************************************
Artist Market presented by Asayo Creative:
The Artists Market has always been a crowd pleaser – delighting festival attendees with numerous booths displaying quality arts and crafts for purchase. Represented this year will be familiar faces along with new talent. We are increasing the festival to include Friday evening and relocating the Artist Market, allowing for more booths, more arts and crafts and more fun. The expanded Arts Alive on the River Festival is predicting greater crowd attendance, increasing exposure to a wider audience range and greater economic impact. Artists interested in participating can contact [email protected], for more information.
**********************************************************
TWO STAGES OF LIVE MUSIC
Main Stage:
Presented by Yuengling and Greater Morgantown CVB
Keller Williams
Larry Keel & Natural Bridge
Zach Deputy
That 1 Guy
600 lbs of SIN! Shady Grove (Acoustic Fletcher's Grove Side Project)
Big Daddy Love
The Greens
The Boatmen
Black Coffee
Poor Taters
Aristotle & The Like Minds
The Ultimatums
Second Stage
Presented by Music to your Ears Productions
Soup Camel
The Short Brothers
Buckstone
Randy Gilkey (of The Boatmen)
Matt McGuire (formerly of Barefeet and Co.) Blackwater Mojo
Russ Reppert
Keven Hamric
and the World Premiere of The Vandalians
**********************************************************
Performing Arts Circle:
A new addition this year, the Performing Arts Circle will feature an array of talent in all forms, from belly dancers to poets to jugglers and more. Those interested in participating can contact [email protected], for more information.
**********************************************************
Creative Community:
We mean it when we say we want you involved. So, spread throughout the festivals grounds will be no shortage of ways to for you to interact with your environment. Whether its tie-dying T-shirts, or participating in our new line-up of art demonstrations, you can find a way to express yourself. And we haven't forgotten the little ones. We'll have plenty of activities that will get them moving, creating and learning. Please, continue to check back for a full list of opportunities.
**********************************************************
Restaurants:
Situated right in the thick of things, the festival's selection of restaurants will serve everything from fair food to cutting-edge cuisine, so palates of all kinds will be pleased. And, whether you're looking for something to nibble on or a full-fledged meal, we've got you covered. Check back for more information on specific offerings. And note that due to feedback from last year's use of tickets to purchase food, we have streamlined the process and restaurants will now accept cash instead. Restaurants interested in participating can contact [email protected]
**********************************************************
Beer/Wine:
A celebration of art in all forms, the Arts Alive Festival appreciates the time and talent that goes into the creation of a fine beverage. It's why we're offering some of the best libations we can get our hands on, including a number of West Virginia wines, crafted-brewed beers and, for the first time, Yuengling. For more information, contact [email protected]
**********************************************************
Volunteers -
If you would like to give the gift of your time and join those who will help make the Arts Alive Festival a reality this year, there are many opportunities, including:
-- working behind the scenes with musical acts
-- assisting artists and food vendors
-- setting up
-- guiding festivalgoers
-- promoting entertainment and activities
-- selling merchandise
-- and much, much more
For more detailed information about these and other positions, contact [email protected].
**********************************************************
Support/Sponsorships -
Become a Donor
For one weekend in June, Arts Alive on the River will become a haven for the arts, a music venue, a children's playground and a reprieve for adults, complete with food and drink. The transformation is only possible with the help of gracious donors like you. Please consider a gift of support. Contact [email protected], for more information
**********************************************************
For further information about Arts Alive on the River please use the following contact info:
General Information: [email protected]
Artist Market: [email protected]
Band Booking: [email protected]
Performing Arts: [email protected]
Kids Activities: [email protected]
Food Vending: [email protected]
Wine Vending: [email protected]
Volunteers: [email protected]
