(Chelsea Update would like to thank Bridget Favre for the information in this story.)
Chelsea Area Festivals and Events is proud to announce the return of its annual Sounds and Sights Festival July 24-26 in downtown Chelsea.
The weekend will feature national and regional live music acts, local food and brew, an open-air art market, classic car show, chalk art contest, and multiple events activities for all ages.
The festival is a 2-day, 3-night event, which offers something for everyone.
Social Tent:
Located behind The Common Grill restaurant, the social tent is open at 6 p.m., with live bands performing from 7-11 p.m. Beer and wine will be for sale to those ages 21 and over. Admission is $5 and all ages are welcome. In addition to the many local sponsors including the Chelsea Downtown Development Authority, Chelsea State Bank and “Jiffy” Mixes, proceeds from the social tent help fund the Thursday Night free concert series.
For a complete line up of music events, click here.
The KidZone Area
The KidZone area, sponsored by Chelsea Teddy Bear Company, will offer activities for children of all ages on both Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Located behind the Clocktower complex, kids will enjoy free bounce houses, free popcorn at the Chelsea Teddy Bear Company, Chelsea Fire department demonstrations, bubble blowing stations, Chelsea Lanes games, and more.
For a complete list of activities, click here.
Pet Parade
This year’s theme is “Summer of Love” celebrating hippie fashions of the late 60’s. Think tue-dye and flower power. So start preparing those amazing costumes for your pets and join in this fun event, on Saturday, July 26. Check-in begins at 9 a.m. and the parade begins at 10 a.m. in front of Farmer’s Supply on Jackson Street.
You can sign up to join the pet parade by calling 475-1777 or stopping by Farmer’s Supply at 122 Jackson St.
For more information, click here.
Art Market
The Chelsea Art Market, located at West Middle Street, has redefined its atmosphere with cool, hip, and affordable art from emerging artists and craft persons. The juried show is open on both Friday and Saturday from noon-8 p.m. Visitors will watch downtown street artists demonstrate techniques in clay, glass, copper foil, jewelry making, painting, and wood carving.
For more information, click here.
Classic Cruisers Car Show
Be sure to zip on over to East Middle, East, and Harrison Street on Friday from 3-8 p.m. to see more than 300 classic cars from across the Midwest. Sponsored by Parts Peddler Auto Supply, this event is an annual favorite for car enthusiasts. For details on how to enter your car into the show, click here.
Chalk Art
The Chalk Art Contest, sponsored by Advanced Dental Group, is scheduled on Saturday, July 26 from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. Participants of all abilities and ages are encouraged to help transform the black asphalt of Middle Street into vibrant colors and works of art. Professional chalk artists will demonstrate chalk art techniques while participants create Chelsea’s second annual “community quilt.”
Spectators will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite piece of work in four categories.
A“People’s Choice” Award will be presented to one winner in each category. The categories and prizes are: Adult – $500; Group – $250; Youth – (12-18 years) $100; Children – (2-11years) $20. For details on how to participate, click here.
For more information, or to volunteer, click here.
