SALEM, OREGON.- Held in picturesque Bush’s Pasture Park, the 2006 Salem Art Fair & Festival will take place on Friday, July 21, and Saturday, July 22, from 10:00 am - 8:00 pm (with music until 9:30 pm both days), and Sunday, July 23 from 10:00 am - 6:00 pm.

"Alive" by Jane Aukshunas - The Salem Art Fair & Festival, one of Oregon’s premier cultural events, will celebrate its 57th year on July 21, 22 and 23 in Bush’s Pasture Park. This eagerly anticipated event is free and open to the public. Set among historic oak trees, the Art Fair’s Artist Marketplace features over 200 of the top fine artists and craftspeople from around the country.

Artists will offer work in a wide variety of mediums including painting, ceramics, glass, jewelry, wood, photography and fiber. In addition to the Marketplace, 50 free performances by regional and national acts will be presented on the Main Stage and Family Stage. Other attractions include Living History presentations and tours of the Bush House Museum; art exhibits at the Bush Barn Art Center; fun art activities and performances for children in the Cohen Kids' Court; art and cultural demonstrations in the Artisan Village; a wide variety of food faire and gourmet goodies in two Food Courts; and northwest wines and microbrew beers in two Wine and Beer Gardens.

The Salem Art Fair & Festival is the largest juried art festival of its kind in the state of Oregon. As one of the best community-driven events in the Northwest, more than 3,000 volunteers participate annually in this three-day celebration. Visitors hail from all parts of the state and beyond, with attendance estimated at more than 100,000. The Art Fair is open and free to the public with a suggested donation.