Colorscape Chenango, a free outdoor festival takes place Saturday, September 6, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday, September 7 from 11a.m. to 5 p.m.) in Norwich's East and West Parks. (Submitted photos)

NORWICH – Excitement is building as the 31st annual Colorscape Chenango Arts Festival returns to downtown Norwich this weekend with an electrifying lineup of performances and creative activities for the whole family.

The free outdoor festival takes place Saturday, September 6 (10 a.m. to 6 p.m.) and Sunday, September 7 (11 a.m. to 5 p.m.) in East and West Parks.

Colorscape’s Board of Directors has dedicated this year’s Festival in memory of long-time volunteer and donor Mary El Emerson, who passed away in June. Mary El’s steadfast support and passion for the arts enriched both the festival and the community for decades. She believed deeply in the power of creativity to bring people together, and her encouragement, generosity, and love of the arts will continue to inspire all who gather at Colorscape.

The Festival will open Saturday at 10 a.m. with a performance by Six Mile Craic, followed by the Opening Ceremony at 10:45 a.m., featuring the presentation of the 2025 Colors Cape Award presentation to Melissa deCordova, the Volunteer of the Year to Mindy Chawgo, and celebrating Mary El Emerson’s lasting legacy.

Art is the centerpiece of this free, two-day Festival. 120 juried artists will showcase and sell their work, including paintings, sculpture, fabric art, fine crafts, photography, and more.

This year, 25 artists are exhibiting at Colorscape for the very first time, offering fresh perspectives alongside many returning favorites. Professional artists travel from across the Northeast to participate in this festival, which has just again been recognized by Sunshine Artist Magazine as a top 100 fine art and design festivals in the country.

Colorscape also celebrates the performing arts, with live entertainment across three stages: the NBT Main Stage, Peggy’s Stage, and the family-friendly Art Zone Stage. The weekend lineup features nationally and regionally acclaimed performers in folk, blues, and rock, including The Kennedys, Burns and Kristy Trio, “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, two-time National Poetry Slam champion Sierra DeMulder, Ugandan artist Samite, pedal steel guitar gospel group The Campbell Brothers, fan-favorite The Slambovian Circus of Dreams, and many others.

For those eager to get hands-on, the Art Zones offer free opportunities to create. Children preschool through age 9 can enjoy activities in the Kids’ Art Zone, while ages 10 and up can experiment with new materials in the Golden Art Zone, sponsored by Golden Artist Colors. Families will also discover free creative activities along Nonprofit Row, in partnership with local organizations.

The 2025 Colors Cape Award will be presented to Melissa deCordova in recognition of her years of dedication and support of the Festival. Each year, this award is given to a community partner whose contributions make it possible to sustain and grow Colorscape’s mission of celebrating the arts in Chenango County. Melissa served on the Colorscape Board of Directors for over 20 years with tenures as both the Vice President and President. In addition to her leadership, Melissa was instrumental in securing critical grant funding and leading fundraising efforts that ensured the Festival’s continued success and growth. “Melissa’s passion, persistence, and vision have shaped Colorscape into what it is today,” said Laura Parker, Board President. “Her countless hours of work have strengthened the Festival and set it up to thrive for generations to come.”

The 2025 Volunteer of the Year Award will be presented to Mindy Chawgo, recognized for her outstanding service and commitment to Colorscape. Established in 2012 in memory of Susan Connelly, Colorscape’s first Volunteer Coordinator, the award honors individuals who embody her dedication and passion for the Festival. “Mindy has been the driving force of Colorscape’s Culinary Court for many years. She is deeply community-minded, giving her time and talents generously to countless organizations that enrich our region in addition to Colorscape,” says Michele Ericksen, Executive Director. “Her energy, dedication, and unwavering commitment always goes above and beyond, making Norwich as a whole not only a stronger community but also a more vibrant place to live.”

With world-class art, live performances, hands-on activities, and community spirit, the 31st Annual Colorscape Chenango Arts Festival promises a weekend of inspiration and celebration for all ages.

About Colorscape Chenango Arts Festival: Recognized as one of the country's top 100 fine art and design 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 120 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 6-7 in East and West Parks in Norwich.

- Information from Colorscape Chenango