Yesterday's Awaken Arts Festival, hosted at the Art Gallery of Algoma's waterfront green space, drew crowds of happy sun-worshipers to what will hopefully be an annual event.
Showcasing a variety of art mediums, musical genres, activities and cultural dance, the celebration was intended to draw the Sault out of hibernation and officially welcome summer.
"We wanted it to fall as close to the solstice as possible," event coordinator Emily Colombo told SooToday.com. "We wanted to pull people off their couches and wake them up to summer, but also wake them up to the unique art and culture that exists in this city."
Along with Colombo, the event was organized by Rebecca Beaulne-Stuebing, Claire Beauchamp and Alexandra Jaffit thanks to a grant from the Ontario Arts Council.
Although Colombo currently resides in British Columbia, she hopes the festival will become an annual event.
"If the community wants it to happen, they can make it happen," she said. "Any of the organizers would be happy to share what we've learned with anyone interested in taking this event on."
Those interested in helping out are encouraged to email [email protected] or visit the official website here. ///
More local news
Browse local flyers
Weather forecast
Find local deals
View local webcams
Verified Commenter, please