(ähts): The Boston Arts Festival Draws Sunny Weather and Large Crowds

Under clear blue skies and in superb weather conditions, Mayor Thomas M. Menino and Target presented the fourth annual (ähts): The Boston Arts Festival on Boston's waterfront at Christopher Columbus Park on September 9 & 10.

For the fourth year, not only did the weather delight but the quality of visual and performing arts remained of an impeccable standard. Over 40,000 people attended the festival over the 2-day period in Christopher Columbus Park.

Affectionately dubbed (ähts): The Boston Arts Festival was designed to launch Boston's arts season and showcase more than 60-juried visual artists and Boston's contemporary arts scene. The visual arts section was housed in a specially constructed Artists' Village built in the middle of the park. This was complemented by a performing arts program that centered on the Waterfront Stage, featuring acts such as Ball In The House, Boston Ballet and Boston Lyric Opera.

The Mural Crew from the Mayor's Office of Arts, Tourism & Special Events facilitated an 'open to the public' painting of a temporary mural, which proved to be immensely popular. They also assisted people of all ages in a 'paint the harbor' watercolor painting exercise.

Chu Ling Dance and Irene Smalls were amongst the performers in the Children's Arts Pavilion, which provided for family friendly activities. Children also enjoyed face painting and programs organized by the Museum of Fine Arts. A Community Arts Pavilion highlighted some of the arts programs that take place right within Boston. Organizations like Rosie's Place, Arts Boston and North Bennet School demonstrated the services that they offer.

Many of the participating artists can be seen again by either visiting Boston Open Studios or the Fall performing arts schedule.



Arts, Tourism & Special Events
Room 802
Boston City Hall
1 City Hall Plaza
Boston, MA 02201