The sun beamed brightly on the 90-degree afternoon as families, couples, friends and children enjoyed the Perkins Rowe Art Festival on Sunday.
With shades and fashionable shorts to combat the Louisiana sun, Baton Rouge residents gathered on the streets of Perkins Rowe Saturday from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. and Sunday from noon until 6 p.m. Artists set up tents and stands on both sides of the closed Perkins Road all the way to Paris Parker.
The arts market exhibited the works of more than 40 artists as festival attendees enjoyed the sights of handmade jewelry, beautiful artwork and assortments of decor. With wallets in hand, many patrons supported the local artists, vendors and businesses in the Perkins Rowe Shopping Center.
Booming with the influx of people, the restaurants in the center made for busy waiters and waitresses.
“I’ve been running since the festival began,” California Pizza Kitchen waitress Lynn Roger said.
Live music provided by Perkins Rowe filled the festival goers’ ears as local bands took to the stage during the two-day event.
“My favorite part was by far the bands,” engineering sophomore Kyle Richards said.
On Saturday, from noon until 3 p.m., Baton Rouge-based band Carbon Copy rocked the stage, while The Cam Pyle Band closed the festival that evening.
The Baton Rouge Music Studio opened the festival Sunday afternoon, including a rotation of bands during the three-hour set. Bringing the festival to a close, Partly Cloudy performed until 6 p.m.
Sponsored by Perkins Rowe and the Arts Council of Greater Baton Rouge, the festival provided an outlet for local artists to network. The festival also allowed local vendors the opportunity to brand themselves and their businesses.
“Honestly, I think the festival allows us as vendors the opportunity to make connections in the community. It gives us a chance to build clientele and a following,” said Sarah Tyler, an art vendor in the festival hoping to expand her aspiring jewelry line.
Offering activities for the entire family, the festival proved an ideal family outing. Magnolia Park served as the hub for children’s festivities, including an inflatable bounce house, balloon twisters and a pumpkin decorating area, welcoming the beginning of fall.
Rock N Pops gave a quick relief from the heat, selling popsicles from a cart.
“My teen is in Urban Outfitters, my child is getting her face painted and I’m just enjoying the day,” said Lauren Giles, mother of three in attendance with her children.
Fellow Tigers were also in attendance, enjoying the close of their weekend before the school week began.
“I have three tests this week, so I’m just gonna enjoy this festival as long as I can,” business junior Rose Gordan said.
Artists managing their booth on Sunday Sept. 25, 2016, during the 7th Annual Perkins Rowe Art Festival.
