ARTicipation Week in Waupaca set to begin August 13

WAUPACA, WI - The vibrant town of Waupaca is gearing up to celebrate a week-long extravaganza of art, music, and culture during the highly anticipated ARTicipation Week, starting August 13th and culminating in the grand Arts on the Square Festival on August 19th. Hosted by the Waupaca Community Arts Board, this event promises an exciting lineup of activities that will delight residents and visitors alike.

The festivities will kick off with the Opening Day on August 13th, from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., at City Square in Downtown Waupaca. Families can join in the fun with a Kids' Bike Parade, while art enthusiasts can participate in hands-on art stations. The Central Wisconsin Symphony Orchestra Percussion Ensemble will also mesmerize the crowd with an interactive performance featuring steel drums from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Throughout ARTicipation Week, there will be a plethora of events to enjoy. On August 15th, head to South Park at 8 p.m. for a free outdoor movie night. Poetry lovers can indulge in the Woven with Words Poetry Reading at Aquamos Coffee Collaborative on the same evening at 6:30 p.m. Music enthusiasts can catch Christopher Gold at H.H. Hinder Brewing on August 16th, and Doug Thompson at Simpson's Restaurant on August 17th, both performances running from 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Friday, August 18th, will witness the electrifying Friday Night Street Dance featuring MoJoe & Flipside with Janet Planet. The Main Tent in Downtown Waupaca will come alive from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. with performances from guest artists including Tony Wagner, Kelvin Kasper, Charlie Sauter, and Bill Jordan on saxophone. Food and beverage trucks will line East Union Street, providing refreshments for the enthusiastic crowd. Revelers can dance the night away and enjoy complimentary light-up finger rings with every beverage purchase.

The grand finale, the Arts on the Square Festival, will take place on August 19th, beginning at 10 a.m. in Downtown Waupaca. With three music stages, a juried fine art show, drop-in art workshops, art demonstrations, dance performances, a food court, and a beer/wine tent, the festival promises a day of artistic indulgence for all.

The Juried Fine Art Show, boasting 40 artist booths, will display a diverse range of art from local and national talents. Additionally, LOOT Vintage & Supply will host a pop-up Phantom Art Gallery featuring regional artists.

The Main Tent Stage will showcase performances from The aTOMix Band, Amelia Ford, and Gin, Chocolate, and Bottle Rockets, ensuring an eclectic musical experience. For jazz aficionados, the indoor Jazz Stage at Union Street Emporium will present the contemporary improvisational jazz group, Daddio, followed by the soulful vocals of Janet Planet.

Throughout the venue, attendees can also enjoy soul-stirring performances. Vibhas Kendzia will captivate the audience with his enchanting Native American flute melodies, while Robin McDumphy will showcase live-loop violin expressions using octave pedals to create a full-orchestra sound.

From August 13th to August 19th, Waupaca will come alive with a fusion of art, music, and community spirit during the ARTicipation Week. Whether you're a music lover, an art enthusiast, or simply looking for a week of fun-filled entertainment, this festival has something to offer everyone.