As summer approaches at what seems like the speed of light, the city of Ithaca is gearing up for one of its most cherished traditions — the Ithaca Festival. This annual event, set to take place from May 30 to June 2, 2024, promises to be a vibrant celebration of art, music, comedy, and community spirit. With the theme "Let the Sunshine In!" and artwork by the talented Joshua Swartwood, the festival invites everyone to come together and bask in the joy of creativity and togetherness.
Since its inception in 1977, the Ithaca Festival has been a cornerstone of the local community, fostering a spirit of inclusivity and celebration. This year marks another milestone in its history as it continues to uphold its mission of "Celebrating the Artist in Everyone." The festival is a free event, making it accessible to all, and is supported by the sale of $5 buttons and various merchandise. These sales help offset the costs of festival programming, ensuring that the event remains a vibrant and sustainable part of Ithaca's cultural landscape.
The Ithaca Festival adopts a theme that encapsulates its spirit and vision each year. The 2024 theme, "Let the Sunshine In!" is a call to embrace positivity, creativity, and the natural beauty of the world around us. The featured artwork by Swartwood will be prominently displayed throughout the festival, setting a tone that promises to be both inspiring and joyful.
The festivities start with the highly anticipated parade on Thursday, May 30th. This parade is Ithaca's most significant single arts event, with over 2,000 participants showcasing their talents and creativity. From floats and marching bands to dancers and community groups, the parade is a testament to Ithaca's diverse and vibrant spirit.
The parade aims to provide entertainment and enhance community awareness of various causes, activities, and quirks that define Ithaca. Groups that fulfill the entertainment or community awareness criteria are invited to participate. However, political endorsem*nts and negative content are strictly prohibited.
Participants are encouraged to incorporate the "Let the Sunshine In!" theme into their presentations. No items can be tossed or thrown from the parade route to ensure the safety of all attendees. Only one motorized vehicle per group is allowed, and all vehicles must be legally registered. Horses must have clean-up crews, and dogs must be leashed.
The Craft Fair
One of the highlights of the Ithaca Festival is the Spring Craft Fair, running from May 31 to June 2. This event features nearly one hundred local and regional vendors showcasing their unique creations. From jewelry and pottery to metalwork and toys, the craft fair offers a treasure trove of handmade items that reflect the skill and creativity of the artisans.
The Craft Fair will be open on Friday, May 31, from 12 PM - 6 PM, Saturday, June 1, from 10 AM - 6 PM, and Sunday, June 2, from 10 AM - 5 PM.
In addition to crafts, the fair includes small-batch foods and beverages such as syrup, honey, wine, and more. It’s an excellent opportunity for festival-goers to find unique gifts and support local artisans.
Music
Music and performance are at the heart of the Ithaca Festival. With over 70 performances scheduled across various stages, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. The festival showcases multiple musical genres and performances, from local talent to touring artists.
Bernie Milton Pavilion:
Thursday, May 30: Maddy Walsh and The Blind Spots will kick off the festival immediately after the parade.
Friday, May 31: Performances include Neo Project, Scratched Vinyl, Metasequoia, Front and Main, and Sing Trece.
Saturday, June 1: Acts such as Ithaca Talent Education, Bob Roberts Calamity, Small Kings, Kitestring, Fall Creek Brass Band, and Gunpoets will take the stage.
Sunday, June 2: Alan Rose and The Restless Elements, The Ilium Works, Strange Heavy, and Ariel Arbisser will perform.
Dewitt Park:
Friday, May 31: Andrea Ward, Marc Berger, Arjun Singh, and Wannah Dance with Alicia Free & Friends.
Saturday, June 1: Ithaca Concert Band, Opus Ithaca Chamber and Jazz Ensembles, Hula Hut, Danza Romani, Mark Rust, and One Heart Community Drumming.
Sunday, June 2: Mr. Bobcat (children's entertainment), Zajal The Sugarplum Fairy and Friends, Ithaca Dances of Universal Peace, and Ithaca Community Sing.
Cayuga Street Circle:
Saturday, June 1: Doolin O'Day, Hilby the German Juggling Boy, Ithaca Ballet, and Grassanova.
Sunday, June 2: Mirage Belly Dancers of Ithaca, June with Chandani Belly Dance Troupe, 6 Mile Craic, and Annie Ol' Thyme.
Ithaca Laughs 2024
Adding to the excitement of the Ithaca Festival, this year also sees the launch of the Ithaca Laughs 2024 Comedy Festival. Running concurrently from May 30 to June 1, the comedy festival promises to fill the heart of Ithaca with laughter and joy.
Festival Highlights:
The Ithaca Sober Comedy Mini-Fest: Featuring three alcohol-free shows, ideal for those who prefer their comedy without libations.
The Elevated Comedy Mini-Fest: Offering three shows with a 420-friendly environment, perfect for a relaxed and laid-back vibe.
Beyond these mini-fests, the Ithaca Laughs 2024 Festival boasts seven other spectacular comedy shows, including stand-up comedians, musical comedy acts, and a special “Roast of Ithaca.” This diverse lineup ensures there’s something for every comedic taste.
“We’re thrilled to be putting on the Ithaca Laughs 2024 Comedy Festival. It’s a fantastic opportunity for locals and visitors alike to experience the growing comedy scene here,” said local comedian and festival organizer Kenneth McLaurin. “Our festival within a festival creates opportunities for everyone to find something that resonates with them, even providing sober spaces for adults to have fun.”
Tickets and Information: Tickets for all shows are available now, and early booking is encouraged to secure spots at this can't-miss event. For ticket prices, show times, and additional information, please visit bit.ly/IthacaLaughs24.
Supporting the Festival: Volunteers and Merch
The success of the Ithaca Festival relies heavily on the support of volunteers and the community. Volunteers are essential for various tasks, from setting up No Parking signs to assisting with traffic control during the parade. Community and small business groups that provide a minimum of two volunteers can have their registration fees waived or refunded.
Festival merchandise, including buttons and other items, are available at designated booths throughout the grounds. These sales play a crucial role in funding the festival and ensuring that it remains free and accessible to all.
The Ithaca Festival, combined with the new Ithaca Laughs Comedy Festival, promises to celebrate the unique spirit and creativity that defines Ithaca. It brings together artists, performers, comedians, artisans, and the community to celebrate art, culture, and humor. Whether you're a longtime resident or a visitor, the festival offers something for everyone—a chance to enjoy performances, discover handmade crafts, laugh together, and participate in the vibrant community spirit.
Mark your calendars for May 30 to June 2, 2024, and join the festivities. Let the sunshine in and be a part of this cherished Ithaca tradition. For more information, visit the festival's official website or contact the organizers.
