Arts Alive on the River brings fun, excitement

Fans of the arts can rejoice; the 2012 Arts Alive on the River Festival is almost here. Friday will kickoff the annual event with Morgantown’s own The Greens performing on the main stage at 6 p.m.

This growing Morgantown tradition features fine food and drinks, artists, musicians, wonders of the performing arts, and children’s entertainment – and it’s free.

The festival will cover all spectrums of the arts and gives an opportunity for the city to gain recognition in the national music and arts community.

Musical acts feature some of the best West Virginia has to offer as well as up-and-coming artists from the national spotlight.

Friday, Main stage:

6-7 p.m. - The Greens

7:30-9 p.m. - That 1 Guy

9:30-11 p.m. - Zach Deputy

Tweener Sets by Smilin’ Joe

Saturday, Main Stage:

11:30-12:30 p.m. – The Ultimatiums

1-2 p.m. – Aristotle & The Like Minds

2:30-3:45 p.m. – Big Daddy Love

4:15-5:30 p.m. – 600LBS of SIN!

6-7:30 p.m. – Larry Keel & Natural Bridge

8-10 p.m. – Keller Williams

Tweener Sets by Ryan Dunkerly & Vince Farcetta

Sunday, Main Stage:

12-12:45 p.m. – Extreme Illusions & Escapes by Josh Knotts and Lea

1:15-2:15 p.m. – Poor Taters

2:45-3:30 p.m. – Shady Grove

4-5 p.m. – Black Coffee

5:30-7 p.m. – The Boatmen

Tweener Sets by Cam Wilson

The Arts Alive on the River Festival is a family-friendly event with something for all ages. Whether one is looking to view the work of local artists, listen to the sounds of Appalachia or treat the kids to a quality puppet show, the entertainment opportunities are nearly endless.

For those who are looking for something a little different this year, The Arts Alive On the River Festival will host the Performing Arts Circle, presented by Richwood Grill. It features a wide array of belly dancers, puppeteers, poets and much more.

Performing Arts Circle schedule

Saturday

12-1:15 p.m. – Mo’Town Steel

1:30-2:30 p.m. – CB Studios Classes

3-3:20 p.m. – Wild Sapphire

3:25-3:45 p.m. – Saphera

3:50-4 p.m. – Shahnaz

4:05-4:15 p.m. – The Hoop Troupe and Gyspy Afire

4:30-5:45 p.m. – Morgantown Poets

6-6:45 p.m. – Spence’s Rye

7-8 p.m. – Po’ Folks Cabaret and Gypsy Afire

Sunday

12:30-1:15 p.m. – Morgantown Songwriters

1:30-1:45 p.m. – Boundless Energy Aero Dance Team

1:50-1:55 p.m. – The Hoop Troupe

2-2:10 p.m. – Wild Sapphire Students

2:10-2:20 p.m. – Wild Sapphire and Saphera

2:25-2:40 p.m. – Po’ Folks, Gypsy Afire and The Morgantown Drum Circle

2:40-2:45 p.m. – All Dance with Morgantown Drum Circle

3:15-5 p.m. – Nerves of Steel

5:30-6:30 p.m. – Professor Bubblemaker

There will be after-party events at 123 Pleasant Street both Friday and Saturday. Friday night will feature jam band Fletcher’s Grove for a $10 cover. Saturday will feature Larry Keel and Natural Bridge with a $15 cover.

The sights, smells and attractions of the Arts Alive on the River Festival is aimed at pleasing lovers of the arts of all ages, and their wallets.