The La Center Arts Fair is back for its second year, and organizers say it’s not just growing in size — it’s deepening its mission to make creativity accessible for everyone.
The event will take place from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, May 10, at Holley Park in La Center.
Launched last year by the La Center Arts Council (LCAC), the fair was designed to give local creators, from first-time makers to seasoned artists, a space to share their work without barriers.
“The goal is to bridge the arts within our community between our youth, our seniors, our creatives, our citizens, civic leaders, educators and businesses,” LCAC Executive Director Kirsten Peterson said.
The fair will once again feature live performances, food trucks, craft vendors and community groups. In its inaugural year, the event welcomed just over 20 vendors. This year, the footprint is doubling, and organizers have already filled half of the available vendor spots.
One of the biggest changes this year is the introduction of a trade blanket, a dedicated area where people can bring something and trade it for another art piece. No booth setup or formal registration is required. Shared items must be original and handmade.
“It’s kind of like a white elephant where people pass the thing around, but it’s original art,” Peterson said. “It gives a chance for creatives in the community … to share their work and come away with something fun and interesting."
The day-long event is open to all ages and promises a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere with interactive art activities and demonstrations. Last year’s crowd-favorite spray-painting demo by local sketchbook artist and LCAC member Dan Masterson is set to return — though this year’s twist is still under wraps.
The Cowlitz Indian Drum Group, which opened last year’s event, will also return to kick off the morning’s performances.
Other art forms, including literature, dance and music, will be represented throughout the day.
Those interested in tabling at the 2024 Center Arts Fair can register now at lacenterarts.org/community-events.
In addition to the fair, LCAC is working with La Center Middle School on a student-led mural titled Hawk’s Landing. Funded by the school’s Associated Student Body, the mural will be created on large panels during four Saturday workshops beginning April 11.
The painting will take place in the school’s art room before the panels are installed on campus.
