Artists participating in this show have been encouraged to donate a portion of their profits to the group Women Ending Hunger. This group, an auxiliary of the Marion/Polk Foodshare, provides low-income families with the resources, knowledge and tools to grow their own food.  

A bike tour that visits sustainable Salem sites, including both nonprofit and commercial ventures, will also be offered. Those interested should convene with their bicycles at the Bush Barn Arts Center at 4 p.m. on July 26.

In addition to the green show, another new activity this year will be "Yoga in the Park." Dr. Zorah Campbell of Indigo Wellness will lead yoga sessions at Bush Park on Saturday and Sunday mornings. This event, which is also free, provides a wonderful opportunity to experience an exercise both mindful and physical.  

The Salem Art Fair succeeds in creating an environment that is rewarding for serious art collectors and artists, as well as a lively festival atmosphere where area residents can enjoy a sunny day at a leisurely pace.  

"The art fair provides Salem's biggest, best, most fun summer activity," Festival Director Debbie Leahy said. "We`re showcasing 200 incredible artists."

The large portion of the artistic spectrum is represented at the fair, including painting, ceramics, wood, wearable art, jewelry and fiber arts. Graphics, printmaking, and digital art are making their initial appearance this year.

As always, there will be a mixture of musical genres performing in three separate venues within the park. The Friday evening headliner will be Bobby Rush, a blues singer from Mississippi. Soul Vaccination, a soul/funk/blues/jazz group out of Portland, will headline Saturday night's concert.

All performances are free.

One of the three music stages features family friendly acts, and activities such as face painting, necklace making, and puzzles are available.

The festival succeeds in creating an atmosphere that holds enjoyment for everyone, even those for whom art is not their passion. In addition to the art and the live music, a beer and wine garden is on hand as well as a variety of local food vendors.