Art & Big Fork Festival: The North Shore's tastiest art fest is back

Downtown Evanston will once again transform into an outdoor gallery when the Evanston Art & Big Fork Festival returns on Saturday, Aug. 22, and Sunday, Aug. 23. Produced by Amdur Productions, the free, family-friendly event will feature the work of 150 juried artists alongside live music, food, craft beverages and activities for all ages. 

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Festivalgoers can browse thousands of original works, including paintings, sculpture, photography, jewelry, mixed media, glass, wood and wearable art, with pieces available at a variety of price points for both seasoned collectors and first-time buyers.

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The popular Big Fork food area will showcase an eclectic mix of food trucks, local favorites, beer and other refreshments, while the Kids Art Zone offers spin art, sand sculpture, coloring, art bingo and other hands-on activities. Visitors can also enjoy face painting, henna art and even have a personalized poem written during the weekend. 

The festival takes place along the closed streets of downtown Evanston at 800 Chicago Ave., just steps from the Davis Street Metra and CTA stations. Admission is free, nearby parking is available, and the event is fully accessible. Hours are 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. 

For more information and a complete list of exhibiting artists, visit Amdur Productions.