934 Fest offering a hybrid in-person, virtual event
Like most festivals, the 934 Fest went virtual last year.
This year, the free festival is back in full force, though those uncomfortable with attending in person can stream the entire event on the website of the 934 Gallery.
The 934 Gallery, a nonprofit all-volunteer art space, has been operating for six years, and has held festivals every year since its inception.
“Our mission is to be an arts anchor in the Milo-grogan neighborhood, to create accessible art experiences for the neighborhood, and to give artists a platform to get exposure for their work. We have a team of about 30 volunteers that help out with things yearround,” said Liz Martin, who is cohosting the Fest with Riley Bayer.
The gallery is normally open from noon to 3 p.m. Saturdays, and the first Friday of the month. The Fest will take place Sept. 10-11. Donations and the proceeds of beverage and merchandise sales from the two-day event will support the operation of the gallery.
Two stages will offer music throughout the event, with 21 musical acts in total. On Sept. 10, visitors can view the current exhibit at the Gallery, “Home,” which includes the work of Danielle Delay and Allison Baker, and enjoy craft beer and food truck offerings.
On Sept. 11, the music continues, along with kids’ activities all day long. The Punk Rock Pawn Shop will offer collectibles, vintage clothing and handmade goods. The day includes a comedy hour and a performance by Openheart Creatures Body Puppets, with musical acts including Jayswifa and Radattack.
One of the highlights of the Fest is the unveiling of more than 40 new murals along the street outside the gallery, running along Cleveland Avene.
“The murals are up for one year, and then we debut new ones at the festival,” Martin said. “We call it our outdoor gallery, and it’s open 24/7.”
Those who have attended previous 934 Fests will notice a few changes.
“Friday is going a little later, to 11 p.m., with four bands instead of three,” Martin said. “And we’re offering a sensoryfriendly hour on Saturday before the festival starts. We’ll be doing a gentle yoga session in our mural alley, and have coloring books and some other calm activities for folks without music going on.”
Whether guests attend the whole festival or just drop in for part of it, Martin says, “We just can’t wait to see people come out and gather again.”
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