The Poulsbo Arts Festival was held last weekend at Muriel Iverson Williams Waterfront Park, a 35-year tradition of celebrating various artists in and around the Viking city.

This year, 40 local artists had their work on display and available for purchase. Folks perused and purchased jewelry, photography, metalwork, ceramics, woodworking and fabric art, among many more offerings. There were also raffles of artwork, demonstrations and live music.

“We have one of the nicest locations for an arts and crafts show on the grass in front of Liberty Bay,” said Greg Enright, president of Cultural Arts Foundation Northwest.

There was perhaps even more excitement about this year’s event since last year’s was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. While case rates are rising locally and nationally, event organizers encouraged folks to wear masks and keep their distance as necessary.

Over the years, the festival has received support from the city, Public Works and downtown shops, Enright said.

“Many of the galleries actually reach out to some of the artists to join or sell their works year-round in their stores,” he said, adding there were five new ones this year.

While most of the artists are from Kitsap County, there were a handful from other areas, including ceramic artist Bob Haley of Eugene, OR, who has been part of the festival for over 30 years.

In addition to the artists, live music was played throughout the duration of the three-day festival consisting of 13 artists who played for an hour each.