Francisco's Farm Arts Fair is this Saturday and Sunday

By Sarah Ladd
University of Kentucky School of Journalism and Media

Francisco's Farm Art Fair is returning this weekend for its 1415th annual celebration of community, art and good food.

Photo by Liz Spencer, UK College of Communication and Information

The fair, Saturday and Sunday, May 19-20, will feature approximately 100 artists who will sell their work and interact with the community. According to the fair's website, only two categories are accepted: two-dimensional (oils, acrylics, drawings, pastels, mixed media, watercolors, photography, original prints) and three-dimensional and sculpture (ceramic, fiber, glass, jewelry, leather, metal, mixed media, paper, stone, wood).

Saturday, the festival will open at 10 a.m. and close at 6 p.m. On Sunday, it will open at 10 a.m. and close at 5 p.m. Admission is free and parking is $5.

Metalwork by Anthony Slichenmyer

The event is named for Colonel John Francisco, the original owner of the land that became Midway. He sold his farm to the Lexington and Ohio Railroad in 1835, after which the L&O planned and built Kentucky’s first railroad town.

In 2004, Midway Renaissance began the festival on the campus of Midway College. In 2011-13, it was held at Equus Run winery, but has since returned to the campus, now Midway University.

The Kentucky Arts Council’s “Makings of a Master” exhibit and the folk and traditional art tent, among others, will be featured at this year's festival.

Cabinet by William Nardin

According to the fair's website, the Woodford County Library will provide free children's activities. "The interactive booth allows kids to create beautiful art of their own," the website says.

New this year, "On the Move Art Studio" will be at the fair on Saturday. This organization seeks to provide a platform for children from low-income families to learn about art. The fair has partnered with Woodford County Public Schools to let students to display their art. A ceremony will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday to honor the students.

Food and snack vendors will include Chrisman Mill Vineyards, West Sixth Brewery, Honnah-Lee Bubble Tea, Bite Me Gourmet Corndogs, Hogfathers BBQ, The Addie Wagon, Jasmine Rice and Go-Go Burger. Live music will be provided from the steps of the Little Memorial Library.