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   If there’s one summer event to circle on your calendar, make it the 31st Annual Northwoods Arts Council Art & Book Festival on Saturday, August 8, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. in downtown Hackensack. Celebrating its distinction as Minnesota’s longest-running art and literature festival, this beloved tradition promises a day filled with creativity, entertainment, delicious food, and family fun.

   For one unforgettable day, Lake Avenue, Third Street, and the Hackensack Community Building will come alive with color as more than 65 talented artists and 35 Minnesota authors gather to share their work. Whether you’re a longtime festival attendee or making your first visit, you’ll discover something new around every corner.

   Visitors can browse an impressive variety of handcrafted artwork, including paintings, photography, pottery, jewelry, fiber art, wood carvings, metal sculptures, and much more. Many artists will be exhibiting at the festival for the first time, adding fresh talent and exciting new creations to this year’s event.

   If you’re searching for a unique birthday gift, an early Christmas present, or the perfect keepsake from your Northwoods adventure, you’ll find hundreds of one-of-a-kind treasures created by skilled artisans. Festival-goers can also purchase a Northwoods Arts Council canvas tote at the registration table or inside Union Congregational Church. The sturdy totes are perfect for carrying books and artwork while supporting future Arts Council programming.

   Book lovers won’t want to miss the literary showcase inside Union Congregational Church, where 35 Minnesota authors will be available to visit with readers, discuss their books, and autograph purchases. It’s a rare opportunity to meet the people behind the stories and take home a personally signed book.

   No festival would be complete without delicious food, and one of the most anticipated treats returns this year: Pies by Guys. Local pie baker Jeannette Dudley will once again tempt visitors with homemade pies served with or without ice cream. Festival veterans know these popular desserts disappear quickly, so arriving early is highly recommended.

   Families will find plenty to keep children entertained throughout the day. The Hackensack Lions Club returns with its ever-popular Lion Safari, where young adventurers will be given their own pith helmet and binoculars and follow clues in search of Leo the Lion. WonderTrek Children’s Museum will once again offer interactive, hands-on activities for children ages 4 to 10, while finding something fun at the Children’s Tent on the ball field is always a favorite stop.

   Visitors can relax under shaded seating areas throughout the festival or gather beneath the large hospitality tent near the food trucks to enjoy lunch, craft beer, wine, and live music while soaking up the festive atmosphere.

   The Northwoods Arts Council extends heartfelt appreciation to the Five Wings Arts Council, the Minnesota Clean Water, Land and Legacy Amendment, Sourcewell, and the Hackensack Lions Club for their generous support in making this annual celebration possible.

   Whether you’re passionate about fine art, enjoy meeting local authors, appreciate handcrafted treasures, or simply want to spend a wonderful summer day with family and friends, the Northwoods Arts Council Art & Book Festival offers something for everyone.

   Mark your calendar for Saturday, August 8, and discover why this award-winning festival has remained one of Minnesota’s favorite summer traditions for more than three decades. It’s a celebration of art, literature, and community that truly should not be missed.

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