San Bernardino boasts a dynamic arts and culture scene, offering residents and visitors a plethora of events and programs that celebrate creativity and community spirit. From art exhibitions to music festivals, the city provides numerous opportunities to engage with the arts.
Annual Events and Festivals
One of the city’s hallmark events is the Route 66 Rendezvous, a four-day celebration held each September in downtown San Bernardino. This festival pays homage to America’s “Mother Road” with classic car shows, live music, and family-friendly activities. Another notable event is the National Orange Show Festival, a citrus exposition founded in 1911, held annually in the spring. This festival showcases the region’s rich agricultural heritage through exhibits, entertainment, and community gatherings.
Local Arts Organizations and Programs
The San Bernardino Arts Council, known as Arts Connection, plays a pivotal role in fostering the local arts community. They offer a range of programs, including:
- Estudio Aire: An Artist-In-Residence program providing emerging and mid-career artists with studio space and resources to develop their work. Artists are encouraged to engage with the community through events and workshops.
- Arts Avenue: Previously known as the After School Artist In Residency (AIR) Program, this initiative offers free arts and culture workshops to K-12 students, covering disciplines such as painting, drawing, ceramics, photography, dance, creative writing, and music.
Upcoming Events
For those looking to immerse themselves in the local arts scene, several events are on the horizon:
- 54th Annual Undergraduate Student Art Show: Hosted by the Robert and Frances Fullerton Museum of Art (RAFFMA) at California State University, San Bernardino, this exhibition showcases the talents of undergraduate art students. The event includes an awards ceremony and reception.
- Sprouting Creativity: Also at RAFFMA, this family-friendly event offers hands-on activities such as bean mosaic art and button garden workshops, encouraging creativity among participants of all ages.
These events exemplify the city’s commitment to nurturing a vibrant arts and culture environment, providing platforms for artists to showcase their work and for the community to engage in creative expression.
Get Involved
Residents interested in supporting or participating in the local arts scene can connect with organizations like Arts Connection, which regularly seeks volunteers and promotes community involvement. Additionally, attending local events, workshops, and exhibitions is a great way to support the arts and experience the rich cultural fabric of San Bernardino.
By engaging with these programs and events, individuals contribute to the thriving arts community that makes San Bernardino a unique and inspiring place to live and visit.