As much as this past weekend's weather had its ups and downs, for the most part Allentown and Allen West Art Festivals didn't skip a beat. Each year the festivals draw thousands upon thousands of visitors to not only view the works by talented artists, but to partake in a vibrant atmosphere that tends to engross the public with its quirky bohemian nature. That's mostly because of Allentown and all of its unique character that can be seen throughout the year.
View image
While it doesn't take an art festival for Allentown to artistically shine, having one of the largest art festival packages at your door does bring out some rather interesting characters and characteristics of the neighborhood. Take it from amateur photographer Andrew Haynes who captured some of the iconic images of the weekend. "My favorite part this year was the break dancers and The Pink's dunk tank," Andrew told me. "The addition of Cantina Loco provided the perfect lunch for us too; tequila and tacos. The best part about the Allentown Arts Festival (and Allen West) to me is seeing the suburbanites coming downtown and taking pride in their city."
So often it's what happens on the periphery of a festival that can make or break it. That includes the street musicians, the dancers, the roque artists, gamers - these are the people that add the extra life and energy needed to keep visitors interested and coming back from year to year. They also tell the real story of the neighborhood, and tend to endear people to what is real about a city.
*BRO commentors: Thanks for the heads up regarding the Allen West recognition!
Shouldn't the title read Allen West Festival: Real Urban Flavor? Most of the pictures, if not all were taken west of Elmwood. And knowing how the Allentown Village Association operates they would not allow break dancers and street musicians.
possibly, but article reads - "So often it's what happens on the periphery of a festival that can make or break it."
You're right 300miles. At the same time I need to give credit where credit is due. In this case it is Allen West that has been responsible for adding so much of the flavor that we see through Andrew's eyes and lens.