Celebrating 70 years of art, creativity, community

PORT CLINTON — The Port Clinton Artists' Club is getting ready for the 68th-annual Arts in the Park event, which takes place on the weekend of Aug. 1-2 at Lakeview Park, 1100 E. Perry St., in Port Clinton. The festival runs from: • 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. that Saturday • 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. that Sunday Admission is free and open to the public. New for 2026, visitors can take advantage of a free shuttle bus to and from Arts in the Park throughout the weekend. The shuttle will operate from the Sutton Center, 1854 E. Perry St., Port Clinton, providing convenient transportation directly to the festival grounds. Guests are encouraged to park at the Sutton Center and enjoy a stress-free ride, making it easier than ever to experience one of Ohio's favorite summer art festivals. This year's festival is especially meaningful as the Port Clinton Artists' Club celebrates its 70th anniversary of inspiring creativity and supporting the visual arts throughout the greater Port Clinton area. Arts in the Park is one of the highlights of the club's yearlong celebration, honoring seven decades of encouraging artists, art education and community involvement. Families will, once again, enjoy the ever-popular children's make-it-and-take-it tent where young artists can unleash their creativity by creating their own masterpieces to take home. The tent has become one of the festival's most popular attractions, giving children the opportunity to discover the joy of creating art while making lasting memories with their families. Set along the beautiful shores of Lake Erie, across from the Port Clinton City Beach, Arts in the Park is one of Ohio's longest-running and most beloved summer art festivals. Visitors can browse more than 100 fine arts and decorative arts vendors, including talented members of the Port Clinton Artists' Club as well as artists and artisans from throughout the Midwest and beyond. From original paintings and pottery to photography, jewelry, woodworking, fiber arts, sculpture, glass, mixed media and more, there is something to inspire every visitor. Returning for 2026 is the popular exhibition tent, featuring more than 100 original works of art by Port Clinton Artists' Club members. Artwork will be professionally judged in multiple categories with ribbons awarded to recognize artistic excellence. Festival-goers can also enjoy a variety of food vendors serving delicious festival favorites while spending the day along Port Clinton's beautiful waterfront. Whether you're an avid art collector, searching for one-of-a-kind handcrafted gifts, looking for a memorable family outing or simply wanting to spend a relaxing day on the shores of Lake Erie, Arts in the Park offers something for everyone. "For 70 years, the Port Clinton Artists' Club has believed that art brings people together," said Patty Wildman, president of the Port Clinton Artists' Club. "We are excited to welcome families, artists and visitors back to Lakeview Park to celebrate creativity, community, and another wonderful Arts in the Park." People can visit portclintonartistsclub.com or email artsintheparkportclinton@gmail.com for more information. About the Port Clinton Artists' Club Bio blast Founded in 1956, the Port Clinton Artists' Club is celebrating 70 years of promoting the visual arts throughout northwest Ohio. The membership-based community art organization provides exhibitions, educational opportunities, demonstrations and monthly workshops while encouraging artists of all skill levels. Arts in the Park remains the club's signature event, welcoming thousands of visitors each year to celebrate art, creativity, and community.