The advent of August means students are headed back to school, local tourist attractions are less crowded and the Scotts Valley Art, Wine & Beer Festival is back.
Since its start in 2001—originally known as “Art Under the Oaks”—the Scotts Valley Art, Wine & Beer Festival has seen impressive growth. Except for a pause in 2020 (hellooooo, Covid), the festival has been held annually, with a record-breaking return in 2021.
This year’s event on Aug. 16-17 features 130 juried artists, including 38 newcomers, representing nearly every artistic medium. Attendees can also enjoy tastings from local wineries and breweries, a great lineup of live music (with James Durbin and the Lost Boys headlining Saturday and The Joint Chiefs on Sunday), and a variety of local food trucks offering diverse dishes.
For families, there’s a Kids Zone, and two themed days add extra fun: Saturday includes the Cops ‘n Rodders classic car show, beginning with a parade from the Boardwalk to Scotts Valley and benefiting local youth programs. On Sunday, it’s all about pets with “Dog Day Sunday,” hosted by former KSBW anchor Phil Gomez, featuring playful competitions for dogs in the community. The Cops ‘n Rodders event benefits the Junior Police Academy and the Explorer Program, both of which are department youth outreach programs.
The festival is the Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce’s single largest annual fundraiser, contributing roughly 30-40% of its operating budget. The Kids Fun Zone often features activities like Spider Mountain climbs, bounce houses, petting zoos and art and craft booths (sponsored by groups like Building Kidz and 4-H Scotts Valley), and contributes to the community by supporting youth engagement and other local organizations.
Marketing Director Susan O’Connor Fraser is excited for this year’s event and welcomes the community to participate in this family-friendly gathering.
“I know the term ‘something for everyone’ is a cliché, but it is true with this Festival,” she said. “While it is an art, wine and beer festival, you don’t have to drink alcohol or even be in the market for a piece of art, to enjoy this free event. You may be into classic cars or be a dog lover, have kids or enjoy the music being offered up, or want a fun way to connect with your community. No matter your interests, this event has something for you.”
Danny Reber, executive director of the Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce, added, “I’ve watched this event grow from its beginnings in 2001 to what it is today. From adding beer and cider, a car show and dog show, and more, the Scotts Valley Art, Wine & Beer Festival seems to get better and better every year. It takes an army of volunteers to make it happen, but it is truly a reflection of our community. It makes me proud to know I’ve been and continue to be a part of it.”
The festival takes place Aug. 16 (10am-6pm) and 17 (10am-5pm) at Skypark, 361 Kings Village Road in Scotts Valley. For more information, visit svartfestival.com.
