Go See This: ClydeFEST for Kids is Saturday, April 14!

Pop Quiz!

Does your little one like to run around in open spaces?
Do your kids love to get messy? Make crafts? Play games?
Does listening to live music put you in a good mood?
Do you love local art? Like, critter art is the best and you smile when you see it?
Does a good food truck tingle your culinary taste buds?

If you answered YES to much of the above, come be rewarded at ClydeFEST!

It’s hard to believe, but this is the Chatham Arts Council’s 16^th year celebrating ClydeFEST. We know, we know – we heard the murmurs asking if there was going to be a ClydeFEST this year, too. Absolutely, 100%, YES! And you won’t want to miss it.

Why Are People Ga-Ga Over ClydeFEST?

What a beloved community event this is! ClydeFEST is an annual, old-school kids’ carnival that celebrates the “critter artist” himself – Clyde Jones – and his creative and colorful wooden creatures. Families have been going to ClydeFEST year after year, and it never gets old. There’s a whole slew of hands-on arts and crafts projects and cool games for elementary-aged kiddos–and we’ve seen an adult or two get really into their own critter creations!

It seems there’s something to excite all ages at this event. But, “what does that mean?” you may ask. Well, let’s break it down.

Paint. Create. Run, Jump, Dance. Eat. Admire. Learn.

This year, we have more booths than ever from local nonprofits and businesses, providing even more opportunities for kids to get messy and create! Count on face painting, hula hoops, balloon animals, old fashioned carnival games, creating works of art, a huge field to run and play in, and importantly, Critterville! Never heard of Critterville? Because of Clyde’s love for children, we’ve created an entire area where kids can pick out a Clyde-original cedar critter cut-out, paint it with their own artistic vision, and take it home. This is one of the most-loved features of ClydeFEST every year.

Amidst the fun of crafts, art, and games, you and your family can dance the glittery day away listening to tunes by local musicians or witness performances from some pretty talented kids. Who will be on stage? We’re glad you asked. Tommy Edwards, Daniel Ayers, Sisters Voices, Chatham Rabbits, Clapping Hands Farm Ukulele Band, Bouncing Bulldogs (yes, the jump rope masters!), Tim Wells, and Takiri Folklorico Dancers (South American style).

These groups cover everything from bluegrass to young choral singers, to Bynum-based Americana to local children’s music – but most importantly, they put their hearts and souls into their performances.

And don’t forget the culinary treats! Budding artists need their strength so you’ll have the chance to peruse (or more accurately, devour!) food from awesome food trucks, including Poblano Tacos, Baton Rouge Cuisine, and Triple J Ice Cream.

Ice Cream at ClydeFEST — Photo by Linda Booker.

You CAN Teach an Old Dog New Tricks!

ClydeFEST is synonymous with fun. Good, old fashioned, family fun! But hidden between the budding artists, kids running wild, and amazing performances, there’s an incredible opportunity for parents to gather valuable community information.

This year, ClydeFEST will feature booths from local artists, camps, a music store and school, and the library – just to name a few. Stop by and chat with representatives from these organizations and more:

Woods Charter School, Bynum Front Porch, Bynum Ruritans (community center), Bynum Methodist Church, High Strung Violins and Guitars (from Durham), Clapping Hands Farm (offering camps), Chatham Recycling, Peter Loose (folk artist), Girl Scouts Troop 1006, Chatham Events, and the Chatham Library.

You’ll be surprised at how much you learn.

Clyde, Critters, and Chainsaws

If you know anything about Clyde, you know that he does not sell his famous critters. B – U – T – he’ll be on-site with his chainsaw. Kids are fascinated to watch Clyde create with his chainsaw, and adults can bid on a piece they see come to life before their very eyes. If you weren’t already, this may absolutely put you in the “Clyde Fan Club.” Proceeds from the auction will go to Chatham Arts Council to benefit awesome programming, like our Chatham Artists-in-Schools Initiative.

Go see this!! We hope you’ll join us on Saturday, April 14.

Go See This:16th Annual ClydeFEST

When: Saturday, April 14, 11 a.m.–4 p.m.
Where: Bynum Ball Field (in the mill village of Bynum): 173 Bynum Hill Road, Pittsboro, NC 27312
What Will This Cost Me?: Kids under 2 are FREE, $5 for ages 3 to 11, $9 for ages 12 and up (Advance tickets available online: https://clydefest2018.brownpapertickets.com/)
For More Info: ChathamArtsCouncil.org/ 919-542-0394
Accessibility: Accessible parking and facilities
Parking: FREE (overflow) park and ride available, courtesy of Carolina Brewery
Kids/Pets: Yes, yes, yes to kids! No, no, no to pets. Sorry.
In Case of Rain: Don’t fret! Sunday, April 15, 12 p.m.-5 p.m.