Events: Arizona - Phoenix - Scottsdale

After a 10-year hiatus, one of Flagstaff’s most popular festivals returns to the area — bringing three days of art, music, food and kid-friendly activities to the Fort Tuthill Coconino County Fairgrounds located at 2446 Fort Tuthill Loop just off the I-17 Freeway. Festival in the Pines, presented by the Greater Flagstaff Chamber of Commerce, takes place Thursday, July 4 through Saturday, July 6 from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily.

The festival is in conjunction with some of the area’s other 4th of July celebrations, which are rife throughout the celebratory weekend. In fact, Flagstaff was recently named the “#1 Destination in the U.S. for Independence Day Activities” by Travel and Leisure Magazine. The area’s 4th of July Parade attracts nearly 20,000 spectators annually, and the city fills to the brim with visitors traveling here to enjoy the festivities, according to the Greater Flagstaff Chamber of Commerce.

Formerly known as SummerFest, Festival in the Pines is the brainchild of Andrew Maguire, president of Andrew Maguire & Associates. The company produces some of the country’s finest art-focused events including ArtFest of Scottsdale (in its 26th year).

Nestled among the pines in Northern Arizona, the festival is expected to include more than 150 artists and vendors from around the country featuring one-of-a-kind artwork including pottery, paintings, jewelry, glass, sculptures and more. Two stages of live musical performances will entertain crowds throughout the day, and the Kids Gallery features creative activities for children.

Many of the artists that once held booths at the previous festival will be represented at Festival in the cool pines this summer, and Maguire is currently accepting additional artist applications for those interested in displaying and selling their artwork. Vendor information and artist applications will be released on Wednesday, January 16 via www.888artfest.com.

Maguire is also working with local non-profit organizations, such as the YMCA, and chambers to represent them at booths throughout the event. Festival admission is $10; children 12 and under are free. For more, visit www.flagstaffartfest.com.