Arts and Cars Festival Arrives in Downtown Summit

A Vibrant Celebration of Art and Automotive Excellence

On Sunday, September 21, the streets of Downtown Summit will come alive with a dazzling mix of artistic creativity and automotive enthusiasm. The "Arts & Cars: Downtown Art Festival & Potter's Car Show" promises to be a day filled with color, music, and excitement for people of all ages. From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., the festival will transform the downtown area into a vibrant hub of activity, offering something for everyone.

Art Showcase

Art enthusiasts will have the opportunity to explore a wide range of creative works displayed outdoors along Springfield Avenue between Beechwood Road and Summit Avenue. Visitors can admire paintings, sculptures, jewelry, and more, with many pieces available for purchase. This section of the festival highlights the local art scene and provides a platform for artists to showcase their talents.

Car Show and Competition

The Classic & Exotic Car Show is one of the main attractions of the event, featuring a variety of vehicles competing in six different categories. These include "People's Choice," "Best in Show," "Best Electric Vehicle," "Best 4-Door," "Best 2-Door," "Most Unique," and "Peotter's Top 10." The competition is sponsored by Summit's "Peotter's Auto Body & Spa" and will take place starting at Bank Street and Summit Avenue. It’s a great chance for car lovers to see some impressive rides and support local businesses.

Live Music Performances

Music lovers will enjoy a lineup of six performers across three stages throughout the day. The main stage, located at the intersection of Beechwood Road and Springfield Avenue, will feature acts such as "Four the Record" from 10 a.m. to noon, "Carnival Dogs" from noon to 2 p.m., and the "Maura Glynn Band" from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.

In addition, the beer and wine garden stage, situated in the Bank Street Parking Lot, will host Beth Sherby from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., followed by "Firepit" from 1:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. For those who prefer a more relaxed atmosphere, DJ Paul Fessock, also known as "Mr. Socks," will be playing live from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Summit train station.

Fun for All Ages

Children are encouraged to join in on the fun with a variety of activities designed for them. They can visit a balloon artist, take photos in a photo booth, or get their faces painted. Additional entertainment includes RC car racing, miniature golf stations, and a robot display, all brought to the community by organizations like the Summit YMCA and Summit Public Library.

Food and Drink

Foodies will be delighted by the selection of more than five food trucks lining the streets. Some of the vendors include Angry Arches, Just Delicious Kettle Corn, Puras Paletas, Sandwicheria, Jacks Surf and Turf, and Pizza Vita.

The Bank Street beer and wine garden opens at 11 a.m. and is open to guests aged 21 and older. A wristband is required for purchasing drinks, and guests can bring food from the food trucks or any downtown restaurants into the garden. Drink tickets are only available for cash and can be purchased at the entrance at Lyric Park on Beechwood Road.

Additionally, the Summit Farmers Market, located at 22 DeForest Ave., will be open from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., offering fresh produce and local goods for visitors to enjoy.