Mattoon Arts Festival final day in Springfield

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – One of the most highly anticipated events in the Pioneer Valley, the Mattoon Arts Festival made its way back to downtown Springfield over the weekend.

It was the 51st year of the festival that is known to turn the city’s historic Mattoon Street into a celebration of creativity as it provides the community with music, food, and art.

“We find it a really interesting and unusual festival, as far as there are so many festivals in September and October, and we like this one particularly well,” said Stuart Krantz from Williamsburg.

The festival is held in the city’s first historic district on a street filled with Victorian row homes.
And aside from the art, this is what Wendy Peppercorn from Williamsburg said she loves the most about this unique event.

“I was so amazed the first time we came here to see buildings like this on this one street, that they preserved so nicely and I just love walking by those,” said Peppercorn.

At the festival, there were more than 100 artists and vendors showcasing their work, with some from Springfield and surrounding areas. Whether it was photography, fine art, handcrafted jewelry, and ceramics, or even handmade soaps, there was something for everyone to shop for and bring home a masterpiece.

22News caught up with two business owners who say this event is special because it brings everyone together.

“One of the things I love the most is seeing the people coming through, especially those that are familiar,” said Chris Paul, with C & H Craft Jewelers. “So it’s like seeing an old family member. They will come in and give you a hug so it is really kind of cool.”

“I like camaraderie, the friendship. Most of the vendors come each and every year so it is a big family,” expressed Kat Taylor, the owner of Mattoon Soap Co.

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Kiara Smith is a reporter who has been a part of the 22News team since March 2023. Follow Kiara on X @KiaraBSmith1 and view her bio to see more of her work.

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