Creativity Unleashed: Your Guide to the Doylestown Arts Festival
From the delicate beauty of glass sculptures to the bold strokes of abstract paintings, the Doylestown Arts Festival showcases the region’s vibrant arts and culture scene—and has been doing so for more than three decades. For two full days in September, the streets of Doylestown will be transformed into an outdoor marketplace, brimming with the creativity and talent of over 160 independent artists. The Inn at Bowman's Hill in New Hope is located just 15 miles from the heart of the festival and is the perfect place to stay when you come to explore the art, music, and community of the Doylestown Arts Festival.
This is the 33rd year of this annual art showcase, which will be held September 7-8 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. The festival features a juried lineup of local and regional artists, ensuring that each piece on display meets the highest standards of creativity and craftsmanship. From photography and woodwork to ceramics, jewelry, and fiber art, the festival offers a stunning variety of artistic styles and mediums. And it's not just about looking at art—you can see it being made right before your eyes! With live art demonstrations, you'll have the chance to watch talented artists at work. Let your own creativity flow with hands-on activities like pottery wheel sessions, silk scarf painting, and even a flying eagle public art project.
Music lovers, you're in for a treat too! With 30 musical acts performing on five stages throughout the festival, there's no shortage of tunes to enjoy. The lineup is a mix of local and traveling artists, covering genres that range from rock and jazz to folk and pop. And when hunger strikes, head over to the food court on Hamilton Street, where you'll find delicious options like slow-smoked meats from Smokey Bandit BBQ, vegetarian delights from Dharma Bums, and sweet and savory crepes from Bonjour Creperie. Pair your meal with a refreshing craft soda from Wild Bill's Craft Beverage Co.
As you explore the festival, we encourage you to patronize the charming local eateries, unique shops, and fascinating museums (such as the Mercer Museum and Fonthill Castle) that make downtown Doylestown so special.
On Sunday, the Doylestown Arts Festival shares the stage with the Bucks County Classic, a thrilling pro cycling event that circles the festival on a 1.4-mile racecourse. This high-speed race, now in its 20th year, draws top cyclists from across the country and the world, adding an extra layer of excitement to an already lively weekend.
Staying at The Inn at Bowman’s Hill means you’re just a short drive from this incredible event. So mark your calendar, book your stay, and come experience the Doylestown Arts Festival—a blend of art, music, and community that makes for the perfect weekend escape in Bucks County.
