---

   As summer winds down, one of the Lakeland’s signature events is set to return to downtown Hackensack. The 31st Annual Northwoods Arts Council Art & Book Festival will take place Saturday, August 8, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., bringing together artists, authors, musicians and visitors for a full day celebrating creativity in the heart of the community.

   Recognized as Minnesota’s longest-running art and literature festival, the event continues to draw thousands of visitors each year. More than 65 artists and 35 Minnesota authors will fill Lake Avenue, Third Street and the Hackensack Community Building with original artwork, books and demonstrations.

   Festival guests can browse an impressive selection of handcrafted pieces, including paintings, pottery, photography, jewelry, fiber art, woodwork, metal art and other unique creations. Several artists will be making their first appearance at the festival this year, giving returning visitors plenty of new work to discover alongside longtime favorites.

   Inside Union Congregational Church, readers will have the chance to meet Minnesota authors, learn about their latest books and have purchases personally signed. The literary showcase has become one of the festival’s hallmark attractions, offering visitors the opportunity to connect directly with the writers behind the stories.

   Those looking for a special gift or a memorable keepsake will find no shortage of options. Festival organizers will also be selling Northwoods Arts Council canvas tote bags at the registration table and inside the church. The reusable bags make carrying artwork and books easy while helping support future Arts Council programs.

   Food is always part of the festival experience, and the popular Pies by Guys returns once again. Local pie baker Jeannette Dudley will be serving homemade pies, available with or without ice cream. The desserts are a longtime festival favorite and are expected to sell out quickly.

   Families will find activities throughout the festival grounds. The Hackensack Lions Club’s Lion Safari invites children to grab a pith helmet and binoculars before setting out to find Leo the Lion by following clues around town. WonderTrek Children’s Museum will provide hands-on activities for children ages 4 to 10, and the Children’s Tent on the ball field will offer additional games and activities.

   Visitors are encouraged to take a break under the festival’s shaded seating areas or gather beneath the hospitality tent near the food trucks, where they can enjoy lunch, craft beer, wine and live music throughout the day.

   The Northwoods Arts Council thanks the Five Wings Arts Council, the Minnesota Clean Water, Land and Legacy Amendment, Sourcewell and the Hackensack Lions Club for their continued support of the annual festival.

   Whether visitors come to shop for handcrafted artwork, discover a new favorite author, enjoy live entertainment or simply spend a summer day exploring downtown Hackensack, the Art & Book Festival offers something for every age. Organizers invite the public to join the celebration on Saturday, August 8, for another year of art, books and community.

---