66th Annual Mystic Outdoor Arts Festival returns with 270 featured artists

MYSTIC, CT (WFSB) – The 66th Annual Mystic Outdoor Arts Festival is drawing large crowds to the village over the weekend.

Featuring 270 artists from across the country, the festival extends over a mile, showcasing a diverse array of booths with everything from tiny treasures to handmade creations.

“We have every kind of art you can imagine. We have almost a mile of it,” said Bruce Flax, President, Greater Mystic Chamber of Commerce. “The things that you see here, they’re jaw-dropping.”

It’s a stroll Carol Case returns for year after year.

She’s been coming to the Mystic Outdoor Arts Festival for as long as she can remember.

“I like the way they have it set up now too, going through the seaport as opposed to down Main Street,” Case said.

Among the returning artists is Beverly Hartman, known for her beautiful glass pieces.

“I love it, I have people that come back to see me year after year, purchase something. They love my art and it makes me happy,” Hartman shared. “It’s a passion for me.”

The festival kicked off at 10 a.m. on Cottrell Street in downtown Mystic and stretches along the Mystic River to the Mystic Seaport Museum.

In recent years, the event has expanded to include a theater segment at Mystic River Park.

The Garde Arts Center from New London is collaborating with other local theaters to bring a diverse lineup of performances to the stage.

Flax emphasized the community spirit of the event, “We want it to be a community event. We want people to feel comfortable here. We want people to come in and visit town as well.”

With over 20,000 attendees expected, it’s a significant weekend for local leaders and businesses.

“I like see the creative side of people, and I just enjoy it,” said Kathy O’Hara, Volunteer. “There’s something new to see every year that I do this.”

The Mystic Chamber of Commerce recommends downloading the ‘Go Mystic’ app to help find available parking.

“It gives you everything you need to know, and it’s a great little tool,” Flax said.

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