A Crowd Pleaser Returns Bigger and Better Than Ever

JENKINTOWN, Pa., Aug. 30, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- On Sept. 18, 2011, Jenkintown will turn its streets into celebration central. Downtown Jenkintown will showcase the talents of local artists, musicians, foodies and brewers during Jenkintown's Festival of the Arts. Between 1 and 6 p.m., visitors of all ages will discover that Jenkintown knows how to bring the community together for an afternoon of fun.

According to Jen Stackhouse, promotions and volunteer coordinator for the Jenkintown Community Alliance, which stages the event: "This year we will offer more entertainment and activities, as well as Festival favorites such as the brew pub and diverse dining choices. And what makes this event so exciting is that the Festival showcases local talent and businesses."

"Now, more than ever, communities nationwide understand the importance of going local," she stressed. "Jenkintown Festival of the Arts brings this commitment to life."

Something for Everyone

Young, old, teens, tweens and everyone in between will enjoy exploring the many hot spots in the downtown area.

Performing on the main stage in the Town Square will be an eclectic collection of local musicians, including hometown favorite the Jenkintown Jazz Combo, the alternative country rock group Prudent Men, indie pop/classic rock band The New Motels, and power pop/garage rock band Beretta76.

On the second stage, located on Johnson Street, the acoustic rock band Kickstart Tomorrow, folk duo Karen and Amy Jones, blues/roots rock Timberline Duo, and Latin guitarist Magdaliz Roura will perform. For a schedule of performance times, visit www.jenkintownfest.org/music/.

With more than 30 artists selling original photography, jewelry, paintings, fabrics and more, visitors will want to stroll down Cedar Street, West Avenue and Johnson Street to see their displays. The winners of the juried art show will be announced on the main stage.

Students who attend Jenkintown and Cheltenham schools and Abington Friends School will have their artwork featured in the Student Art Show.

The Brew Tent, located on Cedar Street between Greenwood and Summit Avenues, is a popular feature of the festival, offering dozens of creations from local breweries. Those entering the tent must show proper identification.

Parents and children will want to check out The Little Gym Kids Court. Located on Johnson Street, the site will offer family-oriented games, including a dunk tank, skeeball, basketball and more. A spirited dance performance by Edge, a local ensemble, will get the crowd moving.

And what's a festival without food? This year, the food choices cater to the desires of every palate. Food vendors will be offering their tasty treats in the Town Square.

General admission to the festival is free, but tickets are required for the Brew Tent. For more information, please visit www.jenkintownfest.org.

About the JCA

The Jenkintown Community Alliance is an independent 501 (c)(3) dedicated to attaining the community's vision of a vibrant, diverse and economically strong central business district.

CONTACTS: JESSICA LESTER or LEZA RAFFEL (215) 884-6499

SOURCE Jenkintown Community Alliance