The 2026 Brockport Arts Festival
By Maggie Fitzgibbon for the Brockport Arts Festival
Over the last 30 years, the Brockport Arts Festival has become more than an annual event; it’s become a cherished community tradition. The Brockport Arts Festival began in the early ‘90s as a small community fundraiser. This annual event has become a celebration that has grown immensely and attracts families, talented vendors, artists, and entertainers. This year’s festival takes place on August 8 and 9, each day from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m.
Each year, the festival attracts visitors and unique vendors from near and far. Over 200 booths have been confirmed for this year; these artists’ genres include photography, ceramics/pottery, graphics/drawing, glass, metal, and much more. Visitors will also find a car show behind the Chase Bank parking lot on Erie Street, food trucks and booths, a children’s area at Sagawa Park, and entertainment at three stages. The Wine Garden will be open on the lawn of the Morgan-Manning House during the festival weekend. The ever-popular Duck Derby will close out the festival weekend on Sunday, August 9, at 4 p.m.
This year marks the festival’s 32nd year and 30 years in operation. (For two years during the pandemic, the festival was not held.) Randy Dumas, president of BISCO and one of the directors of the Brockport Arts Festival, described the festival’s early days.
“The festival first began as a one-day event with a few arts and crafts vendors. The local businesses offered specials and deals to attract people to their shops,” he explained.
Over the next 30 years, the Brockport Arts Festival morphed into a two-day event that attracts tens of thousands of visitors to the college town on the canal. This year, the festival area extends from the canal to the Railroad Overpass/College Street at the east end.
This year’s festival notes a change.
“The festival has returned to its roots. BISCO (Brockport Integrated Service Clubs Organizations), the original producer of the festival, is once again the sole owner and operator of the Brockport Arts Festival,” Dumas said. All monies raised from the Brockport Arts Festival support BISCO’s mission – to bring local service organizations together to cooperatively and collectively contribute to the betterment and well-being of eligible individuals or groups of children in western Monroe County in New York state.
Dumas described some of BISCO’s projects.
“The festival has become so successful that each year we can support and do more. Our leverage is growing, and we are looking to change how we do philanthropy,” Dumas said. “BISCO has funded a new handicap-friendly swing at Corbett Park, a children’s reading program, children’s digital access and literacy materials at Seymour Library, tuition support for Brockport Central School District AP students, and so much more.”
According to Dumas, the Brockport Arts Festival is not only a fundraiser for BISCO but also an event that residents look forward to and an economic driver for the village and town businesses.
“Many of the businesses have reported that the festival is a revenue booster, and some of the local eateries have shared that they have sell-outs. The festival provides an opportunity for visitors to learn about Brockport and all the great amenities we have available,” he said.
“Over the last year, we met with a consultant, Erik Duncan. He analyzed how we run the festival and offered insights and suggestions on how we can improve it. We are a small committee of four: myself, Kari Pardun, Kathy Kristansen, and Trevor Thaine. Erik encouraged us to grow our committee,” Dumas said. “I encourage anyone who might be interested to contact us at brockportartsfest@gmail.com.”
Sponsors, grants, and in-kind donations help to fund many essential festival needs, including live entertainment, children’s activities, the car show, equipment rentals, signage, safety services, writing services, decorations, and other event expenses. This year’s festival sponsors include Brockport Wegmans, Canandaigua National Bank, M&T Bank, Walmart, Nortera, Spurr Chevrolet/GMC, Long Constructions, Assured Partners, Leaf Guard, Renewal by Anderson, Well Now Urgent Care, and Bateman Orthodontics.
This two-day fest is sure to please folks of all ages, with fun, music, and food to satisfy any palate. Dumas encourages the public to visit.
“The festival is growing, and we have so much to offer – great food with some booths offering family-friendly prices, music, entertainment, and activities. Come to Brockport and check out all the fun,” he said.
Arts Fest Celebrates 30th Anniversary with Festival Poster
The Brockport Arts Festival returns to historic Main Street on Saturday and Sunday, August 8 and 9, celebrating its 30th anniversary with a full weekend of art, music, food, crafts, community spirit, and family-friendly fun. Festivalgoers can explore juried art and craft vendors, specialty foods, nonprofit organizations, live music, street performances, and local favorites throughout the weekend.
A special addition this year is a festival poster, created by artist Courtney Lee Designs, celebrating the 30th year of the Brockport Arts Festival. Courtney was selected by the organizing committee for her vibrant, fresh designs with a fun, modern twist. Posters and magnets can be purchased at her booth, #37.
As the festival marks three decades, organizers invite residents, visitors, artists, vendors, volunteers, and families to take part in one of western Monroe County’s signature summer traditions. “The Brockport Arts Festival has always been about more than a weekend event—it is a celebration of creativity, community, and service,” said Randy Dumas, President of BISCO. “We are proud to celebrate the festival’s 30th anniversary and continue supporting programs that benefit children and families in western Monroe County.”
Provided information
Courtney Lee of Courtney Lee Designs with the festival poster she created for this year’s 30th celebration. Provided photo.
Chrome, Classics, and Community: The 2026 Spurr Car Show
By Maggie Fitzgibbon for the Brockport Arts Festival
Do you own a modified car, hot rod, custom, or antique car? Bring your prized set of wheels to the annual 2026 Spurr Car Show at the Brockport Arts Show on Saturday, August 8. The show runs from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m.; registration is free but required. This event is open to all cars, trucks, and motorcycles. Scan the QR code below to register on Eventbrite. Space is limited, so register now to be guaranteed a spot at this SPURR-tacular event.
This family-friendly event is open to the public and will be located on Erie Street behind Chase Bank. Car show organizers shared that entrants should enter from the west, from Utica Street to Erie Street, because Main Street will be closed. Entrants are encouraged to arrive between 8:30 and 9:30 a.m. and spend the day. Danielle Lash is the owner/dealer of Spurr Chevy/GMC, the car show’s sponsor.
Last year was the first year for the car show, and according to Lash, it was a resounding success.
“It was an outstanding show. We had 55 cars attend. This year we have space for up to 65 vehicles. We will have vehicle classifications and categories for judging,” Lash said. “Trophies will be awarded, and car show participants and spectators will have chances to win tons of prizes.”
New this year to the car show is a collaboration with Great Lakes Classic Cars, a family-owned dealership based in Hilton that specializes in classic, vintage, collector, and specialty cars. The owner of Great Lakes Classic Cars, Engels Gualdani, contacted Lash regarding participation; she was elated. Gualdani expressed much excitement regarding his company’s involvement.
“Last year, we distributed flyers advertising the show. This year, we expanded our involvement by collaborating with Spurr Chevy/GMC. We can offer our expertise because of our experience in the business. We will judge the vehicles, provide additional staff, and assist with staging the car show,” Gualdani said. “Our dealership takes pride in participating in community events like Spurr Car Show and the Brockport Arts Festival.”
According to Lash, this partnership is a win-win.
“Great Lakes Classic Cars has many years of experience in the specialty vehicle industry and, collectively, we will bring a great show to the Brockport Arts Festival,” Lash said. “We are bringing together the best of both worlds, Spurr Chevy/GMC’s knowledge of modern-day vehicles, and our expertise in classic, vintage, collector, and specialty cars,” Gualdani added.
Lash promises that the car show will be a fun, jam-packed day.
The general public should plan to attend the area on Erie Street on Saturday and Sunday at noon, as free prizes will be given out. “We will give away prizes to the general public; some items are from local Brockport businesses. Anyone can win,” Lash explained. “Each day at noon, we will also give away a big-screen TV and speaker. Stop by the Spurr booth located near the car show before noon to pick up a raffle ticket for all of the prize giveaways, includ-ing TV/speakers.”
One of the Brockport Arts Festival stages will be located at the car show, and live bands will perform throughout the show.
Spurr is also sponsoring and supplying vehicles and drivers for the festival shuttle service. When asked why Lash wanted the Spurr dealership involved in the Brockport Arts Festival and to sponsor the car show, her answer was simple.
“The Brockport Arts Festival is an important community tradition that people look forward to each year. Spurr Chevy/GMC’s participation provides us with the opportunity to meet people and to continue our commitment to the community,” Lash said.
To register, scan the QR code or visit https://tinyurl.com/ac39zzhv.
Music and Entertainment Set the Stage for Festival Weekend
By Maggie Fitzgibbon for the Brockport Arts Festival
No festival is complete without music and entertainment. This year’s Brockport Arts Festival music schedule is packed full of outstanding entertainment from beginning to end.
Festivalgoers will find three stages throughout the festival area: a stage at Monroe Avenue, a stage at 51 North Main Street called the Evergreen stage, and another stage on Erie Street at the Car Show (only on Saturday).
New to the festival this year are two bands, Dark Road Duo and 2/PM Band. Dark Road Duo performs folk, blues, and traditional/classic country music. 2/PM Band is a trio of songwriters who play a mix of acoustic, contemporary folk, and Americana music.
Funkyard Brass Band, new to the festival last year, quickly became a favorite, and they will make a return this year. Whether it be contemporary, brass, or funk, this New Orleans-style, energetic and dynamic seven-member band will surely captivate audiences of all ages.
The Kids’ Area at Sagawa Park offers a safe, dedicated space filled with fun and supervised activities. Seymour Library will lead children’s activities throughout the weekend. Port-A-Globe Mobile Puppet Theatre returns to entertain kids of all ages with three shows per day throughout the weekend. Known for its fun, lively, and engaging performances, this Rochester-based group brings laughter and smiles to its audiences. The Early Childhood Education team from WXXI TV will be stationed in the Kids’ Area, providing summer fun resources and information on WXXI/PBS programming. Crosby’s Convenience Stores is the Kids’ Area sponsor.
“We can continue to offer great musical acts and, this year, expand our musical offerings due to grant funding from Monroe County’s Community Festival Support Program and Rochester Area Community Foundation from the Arts and Culture Fund,” said Kari Pardun, one of the Brockport Arts Festival’s Directors.
The festival ends at 5 p.m. on Saturday; however, the music continues on two festival stages. Gray Matters will rock the Monroe Avenue stage on Saturday from 4:30 to 6 p.m. This classic rock and party cover band performs hits from the 60s through the 90s. Brockport native Chris Moore takes the stage at 58 Main BBQ and Brew on Saturday from 4 to 7 p.m.
Check out the schedule included in this festival booklet for all the great music and entertainment planned for this year’s Brockport Arts Festival.
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NY Theatre Troupe Brings an Evening of Comedy to the Festival
By Maggie Fitzgibbon for the Brockport Arts Festival
This year’s Brockport Arts Festival will include a new evening of entertainment on Saturday, August 8. Shake on the Lake is a troupe of entertainers who perform various works of William Shakespeare. This performance will be at 6:30 p.m. on the lawn of the Alumni House at SUNY Brockport. The Alumni House is located at the end of College Street in the Village of Brockport.
Shake on the Lake will perform one of Shakespeare’s earliest works, The Comedy of Errors. This slapstick comedy is chock-full of puns, mistaken identities, and chaos.
Shake on the Lake’s home base is in Perry, NY. The troupe is well-known in Western New York and the Finger Lakes region, as well as in Arkansas, for its fun, fast, physical performances.
The event is free and open to the public; folks are encouraged to bring a lawn chair. Plenty of parking is available on the SUNY Brockport campus. In order to plan appropriately and for grant reporting purposes, free tickets are available at Eventbrite. In case of inclement weather, the performance will be held indoors at the Tower Fine Arts Building.
This new addition to the Brockport Arts Festival is funded by a grant from the Rochester Area Community Foundation from the Arts and Culture Fund. The grant was written and submitted by Erica Linden on behalf of the Brockport Foundation at SUNY Brockport, a BISCO (Brockport Integrated Service Clubs Organization) member. BISCO is the sole producer of the Brockport Arts Festival. Besides the Shake on the Lake performance, the grant funding will also be used to support other festival entertainment.
Linden, Director of Foundation and Government Relations for SUNY Brockport, explained this partnership.
“The university has always been a strong supporter of the wider community. Dr. Heidi Macpherson, the outgoing President of SUNY Brockport, built a strong relationship with the town, village and university, so it’s a natural alliance for the Brockport Arts Festival and SUNY Brockport to collaborate to bring this event to the community,” she said.
The Brockport Arts Festival ends at 5 p.m. on Saturday, August 8; however, according to Linden, the fun doesn’t end.
“The music will continue on the stages located at 58 Main on North Main Street and another stage on Monroe Avenue. Food trucks will also be stationed near the Monroe Avenue stage. We encourage folks to stay, enjoy some food and the music until 6 p.m., and then head over to Alumni House for the Shake on the Lake performance,” Linden shared.
Free tickets are available by scanning the QR code or visiting https://tinyurl.com/585hp2zt.
Bring Your Appetite and Enjoy Some Fine Festival Food
Whether you’re looking for a refreshing beverage, a quick bite, or a whole meal, there is sure to be something for every taste. Provided photo.
Duck Derby Splashes Down on Sunday
Stop by the Duck Derby booth and adopt a duck for the chance to win prizes. File photo.
Parking Improvements for the 2026 Brockport Arts Festival
By Maggie Fitzgibbon for the Brockport Arts Festival
One of the 2026 priorities set by the Brockport Arts Festival committee was to make parking improvements for festivalgoers. Parking for vendors has been cumbersome, especially for those who need to transport their artwork, goods, tables, and tents. This year, a new vendor parking lot is located at SUNY Brockport. Festival volunteers with vehicles will transport vendors to and from their vehicles to the festival area. Kathy Kristansen is one of the Brockport Arts Festival directors.
“Parking has always been an issue. Having a designated parking lot with shuttling services exclusively for the vendors will hopefully make their participation more enjoyable,” Kristansen said. “Vendors will receive an email with festival information including booth location, arrival time and directions into the festival, parking directions and other information. The vendors will be allowed to drive to their booth location to drop off their merchandise and any other booth gear before utilizing the vendor parking lot.”
Festivalgoers are encouraged to park at the Sweden Plaza, located on Route 19 just south of the intersection of Routes 19 and 31. Free shuttles, provided by Spurr Chevrolet/GMC, will run several times per hour to the festival area with designated drop-off zones.
“There are shuttle drop-off locations at both ends of the festival, by the canal at the north end of the festival and by the railroad bridge at the south end. The shuttle service will pick up at the same two locations and transport people back to Sweden Plaza,” Kristansen explained.
The Main Street canal bridge will be closed to vehicle traffic but open for foot traffic. The bridge will also rise to allow boats to pass. Folks are encouraged to cross the bridge and visit the businesses located on Main Street, north of the canal.
“Main Street will be closed from the 9/11 Memorial at Adams and Main Streets to the canal bridge. The bridge will be accessible to attendees arriving from the north. College Street will also be closed on the east end,” Kristansen noted.
Consultant Helps Festival Committee Improve Event Logistics
By Maggie Fitzgibbon for the Brockport Arts Festival
Brockport resident Erik Duncan owns a strategy, marketing, and finance consulting business called ThinkaDay, Inc. The focus of his business is to analyze companies’ practices, systems, and procedures and offer ways for entrepreneurs to improve them.
Each year, he provides pro bono management consulting services to a Brockport-area not-for-profit organization or event, association, or club. This year, a member of BISCO (Brockport Integrated Service Clubs Organization) approached Duncan about the possibility of working with the Brockport Arts Festival (BAF). (BISCO is the sole producer of the Brockport Arts Festival.) Duncan agreed, and the work began.
“I’m a Brockport resident, and my business is also based here. I’ve always been an advocate of the Brockport Arts Festival, so when I was asked to offer my services, it just made sense,” Duncan explained.
Duncan attended BISCO meetings and met with the Brockport Arts Festival directors.
“I listened, observed, and tried to understand the processes used by the festival committee. We reviewed all the festival areas that the festival delivered,” Duncan explained. “I learned that the primary fundraiser for BISCO is the Brockport Arts Festival.”
Duncan shared what he and the team discussed.
“The team and I have looked at a variety of areas, in addition to ensuring that the 2026 festival is a superior experience for all the stakeholders. We tackled some tasks such as putting in place some efficiencies with respect to operations and long-term planning and strategy that will ensure that the festival continues to be a success,” he said. “It’s important that each of the volunteers has the opportunity to capitalize on their unique skills and talents. We are blessed that each of the committee directors is uniquely talented. We’ve been focused on maximizing those individual skills and collectively as a team,” Duncan added.
Randy Dumas is one of the BAF directors. He described Duncan as a “business innovator.” Dumas noted how Duncan’s analysis of the festival’s operations gave the committee some new perspectives.
“Erik suggested that we formulate plans for the future, specifically three- and five-year plans. By setting goals and planning for the future, we can expand and improve the festival,” Dumas said. “Erik also advised us to grow the festival committee. Right now, we have a team of four directors who run the festival; we welcome anyone who wishes to join us.”
Are you interested in joining the committee? Email brockportartsfest@gmail.com for more information.
