FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:
West Park Civic Association
Email: AITP.Allentown@gmail.com
Website: art-in-the-park.org

51st Art in the Park Celebrates “Renewal” in Allentown’s Historic West Park

ALLENTOWN, PA — August 18, 2026 — The 51st Art in the Park returns to historic West Park on Saturday, September 12, 2026, bringing together over 130 artists, nine performance groups, community organizations, families, and art lovers for a day of creativity, entertainment, and community celebration.

In light of the July 4, 2026 storm, which damaged or destroyed several century-old trees in West Park, Art in the Park embraces the theme of “Renewal.” As the Lehigh Valley community comes together to enjoy one of Allentown’s signature cultural events, we will help shine a light on the importance of restoring and preserving the historic character of West Park.

“Art in the Park is about celebrating creativity, community and the extraordinary place we call home,” says Art Show Director Alan Younkin. “This year, the idea of renewal is especially powerful. We lost beautiful, historic trees in the July 4 storm, but we are determined to help West Park recover and flourish. We hope this year’s Art in the Park will be both a celebration of what makes West Park special and a hopeful look toward its future.”

Familiar Faces — and Many New Ones

Visitors will see familiar faces, along with new artists, organizations, performers, and vendors.

The event will feature a wide variety of artwork and creative activities, giving attendees the opportunity to meet local and regional artists, browse and purchase original work, and learn more about the many talented people who contribute to the Lehigh Valley’s vibrant arts community.

Community organizations will offer information, activities and opportunities to get involved.

Something for the Whole Family

Art in the Park is a family-friendly event, with activities for children and adults alike. Families can explore the park, meet artists, enjoy live entertainment, and discover hands-on creative activities.

And this year, there is a new attraction sure to be a hit: a FREE 360 Spinner experience that captures a fun, dynamic video of participants as the camera spins around them. The resulting video can be sent directly to friends and family, making it easy to share the Art in the Park experience on social media or by text.

Helping West Park Renew

The July 4 storm was a painful reminder of how vulnerable historic landscapes can be. Several of West Park’s century-old trees were severely damaged or lost.

In keeping with this year’s Renewal theme, Art in the Park is encouraging visitors to support efforts to restore West Park’s trees and preserve its historic beauty for future generations. Donations to the park’s Tree Fund will help support the restoration of the park’s tree canopy.

Renewal also means preserving West Park’s historic architecture. The West Park Civic Association is leading a campaign to restore the historic West Park bandshell, which was designed by the renowned Gilded Age architect Horace Trumbauer. Dedicated in September 1908, the Beaux-Arts style structure serves as the iconic summer home for the Allentown Band. This distinctive landmark continues to serve as a gathering place for music, community events, and generations of park visitors.

Art in the Park organizers extend special thanks to the event’s sponsors, patrons, artists, performers, community organizations, volunteers and the Allentown Parks & Recreation Department for helping make the 51st Art in the Park possible.

51st Art in the Park

Saturday, September 12, 2026
Historic West Park
Allentown, Pennsylvania
10:00 am - 5:00 pm
Free admission

For additional information, artist and community-participant updates, and event details, visit www.art-in-the-park.org or follow Art in the Park on social media.

Media Contact:
West Park Civic Association
Email: AITP.Allentown@gmail.com
Website: art-in-the-park.org