Marblehead Festival of Arts a tradition to savor

MARBLEHEAD – Marblehead is the place to be this holiday weekend as the 46th annual Marblehead Festival of Arts starts today.The first day is an all-day affair beginning at 9 a.m. and ending at 10:30 p.m. There will be a literary arts cafe going on at the Unitarian Universalist Church from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. A big highlight of the weekend is the film festival at Crocker Park, which begins at 9 p.m.The Marblehead Festival of Arts is annual tradition in the seaside town that brings in visitors from all over the region, according to organizers.?It is a big part of Marblehead and the North Shore,” said festival committee member and spokesperson Nancy Fromson. “Marblehead is really supportive of the arts and it is a beautiful town that we love to share.”In addition to the film festival, there will also be a concert series at Crocker Park, which will feature an eclectic mix of 18 individuals and groups, according to chairperson Brian Wheeler.?A lot is happening this year,” said Lynn DeVoe, president of the committee. “It is amazing to see the talent.”DeVoe said the concerts are one of her favorite events.?Just to be there and to feel the rhythm and the pulse is electrifying,” said DeVoe.Cathy Michael, vice president of the committee, said she is most looking forward to the artisans exhibit, which will be held outside Abbot Hall on Sunday morning at 10 a.m.?I love to see the crafts. It is wonderful,” said Michael.Both DeVoe and Michael agree the festival brings a lot to the artsy community of Marblehead.?I have lived in Marblehead for 27 years and I have never missed the festival. Not once. That?s why I wanted to volunteer this year,” said Michael.?It really brings the community together and it is amazing thing,” said DeVoe. “It is one of the best places to be during the Fourth of July weekend. I wouldn?t want to be anywhere else.”Most of the exhibits are free and there will be a festival trolley for participants to ride from one exhibit to the next.?It is a great lively, vibrant fun place to be on the Fourth of July weekend,” said DeVoe. “There is nothing better.”