Dom Flemons will be playing on the NBT Mainstage Saturday, September 6 at 1 p.m. (Submitted photo)

NORWICH – Colorscape Chenango Arts Festival returns to downtown Norwich this September 6 and 7, bringing with it an exciting weekend of art, music, and family-friendly cultural experiences.

Now in its 31st year, Colorscape continues to be a celebrated destination for artists, performers, and thousands of visitors from across the Northeast.

Colorscape will host a diverse array of performances spanning genres from folk and jazz to dance and puppetry. The festival promises a spectacular lineup of events, showcasing the rich tapestry of talent that has defined the event for over three decades. Attendees can also look forward to engaging with local artisans, participating in literary, dance, music, and arts activities, and enjoying culinary delights from food vendors representing the area's diverse flavors.

“The Colorscape jury met in early March to review artist applications,” said Peggy L. Finnegan, Visual Arts Coordinator. “Jurors included Sarah Smith (ceramics and proprietor of Gallery 3-2-1 in Oxford), Deb Sylstra (quilts and appliqués), Beth Dubois (jeweler), and Carolyn Hunter (watercolor artist). All are peer jurors, which means they are also exhibitors in the festival. We are grateful for the donation of their time and expertise. This year 120 artists have been selected to show and sell their work, including 25 who are coming to Norwich for the first time, topping last year’s record. Visitors are sure to find beautiful things to delight and surprise them.”

“We’re proud to showcase an incredible mix of performers and artists who reflect the vibrancy and creative spirit of Colorscape,” said Michele Ericksen, Executive Director of the Festival. “This year builds on our long-standing tradition of celebrating community and creativity, and we’re looking forward to another unforgettable weekend in the heart of Norwich. Whether you’ve been coming for years or are discovering Colorscape for the first time, there’s something inspiring for everyone: art, music, food, and experiences that bring people together and remind us of the power of the arts to connect and uplift.”

Colorscape’s NBT Mainstage, located in East Park, will again spotlight nationally and regionally recognized bands and solo performers, emphasizing folk, blues, and rock, curated by Ken Millett of Night Eagle Productions.

Saturday kicks off at 10 a.m. with Six Mile Craic featuring traditional and modern Irish tunes, followed by two-time National Poetry Slam champion Sierra DeMulder. The day continues with The Kennedys, Burns and Kristy, “Best Folk Album” Grammy nominee Dom Flemons, folk legend Eric Andersen whose songs have been recorded by artists such as Ricky Nelson, Peter Paul and Mary, Johnny Cash, The Grateful Dead, and Mary Chapin Carpenter among others, and fan-favorite The Slambovian Circus of Dreams.

Sunday’s performances include Autumn Sun, Sloan Wainwright & Friends, The Kennedys, Ugandan artist Samite, pedal steel guitar gospel group The Campbell Brothers, and a grand finale by The Slambovians.

Beyond the Mainstage, the festival offers two additional stages packed with talent. Peggy’s Stage will feature newcomer Gowdy Station (Binghamton) alongside returning acts including The Dovetones, George Anderson, Simmerin’ Stew, Tin Pan Alley Review, Real Time Dixieland Band, and Unity Group. The Festival will also welcome Chris Thomas and Ongew'hon:wehkah Smoke Dancers, a Native American dance ensemble based out of Syracuse.

The Art Zone Stage offers fun for all ages with puppeteers, jugglers, musicians, and more, featuring returning acts like Jason Tardy, DrumQuest, and The Skinny German Juggler Boy. New for 2025 are local musicians Jenni Larchar and Julia Burns, both hosting interactive music sessions for children.

For more information about Colorscape Chenango Arts Festival, including full event schedules and artist information, please visit www.colorscape.org.

Recognized as one of the country's top 200 fine art and design classic and contemporary craft shows by Sunshine Artist Magazine, Colorscape Chenango has celebrated premier artists in downtown Norwich since 1995.

This free, two-day festival in September features over 100 creators displaying and selling their paintings, sculptures, fabric art, fine crafts, photography, and more. Colorscape also offers nationally renowned musical performers, poetry and literary arts, food, and interactive art activities for all ages.

The 2025 Colorscape will be held rain or shine on September 6 and 7 in East and West Parks in Norwich.

-Information provided by Colorscape Chenango