July 31st, 2014
By Times Staff
Manchester’s Festival by the Sea — a day-long celebration of local art, live music and food — returns to downtown on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., featuring more than 75 artists, including painters, jewelers, artisans and more.
The festival stretches from the Town Hall Common through the downtown into Masconomo Park.
In the park, visitors will find abundant art as well as a variety of foods provided by local restaurants and food trucks, along with a beer garden featuring Cape Ann Brewing’s signature ale, Fisherman’s Brew.
On the Masconomo Park bandstand, live music will extend throughout the day featuring Cape Ann performers such as Joe Wilkins, Bradley Royds and Allen and Dylan Estes. The event culminates with a 6 p.m. headlining performance by Vermont native and New York City musician, Caitlin Canty.
Canty’s early summer performance at Cambridge’s Club Passim sold out days before the show.
Festival co-chairman and music director Chris Langathianos, said he was thrilled that the singer accepted their officer to headline Manchester’s celebration of the arts.
“She will be coming directly from performing at the Falcon Ridge Folk Festival, which draws as many as 15,000 attendees, so we’re going to see a special talent right in our own backyard,” he said.
In the event of inclement weather, the rain date will be the following day, Sunday, Aug. 3. For more information, follow Festival by the Sea on Facebook.
The event is free for all, and organizers said there will be ample parking and a complimentary shuttle to and from satellite parking areas.
Organizers also suggest packing a blanket for the day, especially for the evening music performances.
The event is sponsored by the Manchester Division of the Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce.
If you go …
What: Manchester Festival by the Sea
When: Saturday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Where: Downtown Manchester, Town Hall Common to Masconomo Park.