The Crosby Beach Festival is an annual celebration of art, music, and community in the picturesque town of Crosby Beach, Merseyside. Established in 1965, this juried fine art show has become a beloved tradition, attracting over 10,000 visitors each year to the Toledo Botanical Garden (formerly Crosby Gardens).
What is the Crosby Beach Festival?
The Crosby Beach Festival is a premier outdoor art festival that showcases a diverse array of artwork, including ceramics, fiber, glass, jewelry, mixed media, painting, photography, sculpture, and wood. The festival is highly selective, with a jury of artists carefully curating the exhibitors to ensure the highest quality of art is presented during the weekend.
History of the Crosby Beach Festival
The Crosby Beach Festival has a rich history, dating back to 1965 when it was first established. Over the years, the festival has grown in size and reputation, becoming one of the most anticipated events in the Merseyside region. The festival’s longevity is a testament to the dedication of the organizers, the talented artists who participate, and the loyal community of art enthusiasts who attend year after year.
Venue and Location
The Crosby Beach Festival is held annually at the Toledo Botanical Garden (formerly Crosby Gardens) in Crosby Beach, Merseyside. This picturesque setting provides the perfect backdrop for the festival, with its lush greenery, serene ponds, and stunning views of the nearby coastline.
Festival Highlights
The Crosby Beach Festival offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the highlights:
Juried Art Exhibits
The heart of the festival is the juried art exhibits, where visitors can browse and purchase a wide variety of high-quality artwork from talented artists. The selection process is highly competitive, ensuring that only the best work is showcased.
Live Music
Throughout the weekend, the festival features live music performances from local and regional artists. The music adds to the festive atmosphere and provides entertainment for attendees.
Local Food and Drink
The Crosby Beach Festival is a celebration of the local community, and this is reflected in the delicious food and drink offerings. Visitors can enjoy a variety of local cuisine, as well as craft beers and wines from nearby breweries and wineries.
Toledo Grows
The festival also supports Toledo Grows, a grassroots effort dedicated to the continued growth and success of community-based gardens in the City of Toledo and the surrounding area. Visitors can learn about the organization and its initiatives.
Attending the Crosby Beach Festival
The Crosby Beach Festival takes place annually in June, with the 2023 edition happening on June 23 from 6 pm to 9 pm. Tickets for the festival can be purchased through Eventbrite, with prices varying depending on the event.
Ticket Prices
- General Admission: $10
- Children (under 12): Free
- VIP Tickets: $50 (includes access to exclusive lounge and complimentary drinks)
Parking and Transportation
The Toledo Botanical Garden offers ample parking for festival attendees. Visitors can also take advantage of the festival’s shuttle service, which runs from designated parking areas to the festival grounds.
Accessibility
The Crosby Beach Festival is committed to ensuring that the event is accessible to all visitors. The festival grounds are wheelchair-friendly, and there are designated areas for those with special needs.
Why Attend the Crosby Beach Festival?
The Crosby Beach Festival is a must-attend event for art enthusiasts, music lovers, and anyone who appreciates the vibrant community of Crosby Beach. Here are some reasons why you should consider attending:
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Exceptional Art: The festival’s juried selection process ensures that only the highest quality artwork is showcased, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to discover and purchase one-of-a-kind pieces.
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Lively Entertainment: The festival’s live music performances and local food and drink offerings create a festive atmosphere that is sure to delight attendees.
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Community Engagement: By supporting the festival and Toledo Grows, visitors can contribute to the continued growth and success of the local community.
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Picturesque Setting: The Toledo Botanical Garden provides a beautiful and serene backdrop for the festival, making it a truly memorable experience.
Whether you’re a seasoned art collector or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of the outdoors, the Crosby Beach Festival is an event that is not to be missed. Mark your calendars and join us in Crosby Beach for a weekend of art, music, and community celebration.