The 44th Annual Hiddenite Celebration of the Arts is scheduled for Saturday. The fun begins at 9am.
The festival features arts & crafts vendors, food vendors, living history demonstrations within the folk-life pavilion, live performances on four stages, an interactive children’s area, Appalachian State University Steely Pan band, Horse Rides, informational booths, and more!
The historic Lucas Mansion serves as the nucleus of the festival with the children’s area located adjacent to the Gazebo stage. The Lucas Mansion will be open for exploration during the festival. A $1 tour will provide guests with local history, folklore, and information about the unique geology of the area as they step back in time to the turn of the century home of James Paul Lucas, also known as “Diamond Jim.”
This year’s Celebration focuses on reflection and vision with the theme of “Celebrating 125: Honoring the Past, Embracing the Future.” As the community celebrates 125 years of the Lucas Mansion, Center staff are proud to honor the past while embracing the exciting future of the Hiddenite Arts and Heritage Center.
This year’s art exhibit is a culmination of the work of photographers, painters, graphic artists, woodworkers, and others who have drawn inspiration from the Lucas Mansion over the years. Many of these artists generously donated their work to the permanent collection, leaving a legacy of creativity that continues to enrich our community. Curator Allison Houchins has brought this special collection together in the newly renovated gallery space, offering visitors the chance to experience both the history and the future of the Mansion through art.
The public is invited to join in the celebration of recent renovations, honor the artists who have shared their vision, and look ahead to the next chapter of the Hiddenite Center’s story.
For additional festival information visit hiddenitearts.org, call 828-632-6966, or email info@hiddenitearts.org.
Story: The Taylorsville Times