The heart of Wilkes-Barre is set to come alive with artistic vibrancy as the Fine Arts Fiesta marks its 70th anniversary. This cherished event transforms Public Square into an expansive canvas, celebrating a rich legacy of visual and performing arts.
Throughout the festival, the outdoor stage will host a variety of performances from dance troupes, musicians, and actors, while artists from across Northeastern Pennsylvania and beyond will showcase their creative works. Ann Saxton, president of the board of directors, emphasizes the festival’s importance, stating, “We have a lot of wonderful, incredible local talent, and it’s just delightful that we are able to provide this venue.”
Commemorating Seven Decades of Artistic Celebration
The Fine Arts Fiesta, founded in 1956 by Annette Evans, was inspired by her travels in Europe where she witnessed open-air festivals. Evans envisioned a similar cultural gathering in the Wyoming Valley, choosing Public Square as the ideal location. This year’s theme, “70 years around the square,” highlights the enduring tradition of the event.
Wilkes-Barre has embraced its reputation as an artist-friendly city, welcoming creators from various disciplines for this four-day celebration. The festival remains a vibrant showcase of the region’s artistic talents.
Spotlight on Local Artists
Artist Mark Ciocca, known for his pen and ink illustrations of local landmarks such as the F.M. Kirby Center, will present his works at the event. A native of Scranton, Ciocca has been attending the Fiesta since his junior high school days. As a judge for the student art exhibit, Ciocca praised the exceptional quality of student submissions, which included photography, painting, and ceramics.
The Fiesta aims to inspire young artists through activities in the children’s tent, fostering the next generation of creative minds.
Introducing New Attractions
This year, the festival reintroduces its walking art display, which debuted last year. The exhibit features life-size installations of famous artworks, with this year’s focus on modern art.
Moreover, Fiesta headquarters at 58 Public Square will host an indoor exhibit, and the Phil Giordano Jaxx Orchestra will perform “7 Decades of Jazz” on Saturday night, among other performances. The event runs from Thursday through Sunday, with activities commencing between 10 and 11 a.m. daily.
For a complete schedule, visit the Fine Arts Fiesta website, and view the fiesta map here.
WVIA’s Haley O’Brien will broadcast live from the Fine Arts Fiesta Thursday during All Things Considered. Tune in to WVIA Radio from 4 to 6 p.m.
