BINGHAMTON, N.Y. - Day 2 of Binghamton's annual July Fest officially kicked off Saturday morning. The event began with a 5K race, followed by a showcase of some of the areas best local artists and crafters. More than 40 different vendors sold everything from paintings to handmade pottery.
Binghamton's local artists have been drawing people to the area for more than 50 years.
"We're very creative and sophisticated in our artwork. This is a nice little art community," said Ron Scales, Handlebar Pottery.
"Binghamton is an art oriented town. People love art and a lot of people come here because of that," said Deo Lutwama, Paint Artist.
Some of those creaters included local wood carvers like Warren Alpaugh.
He says he hopes his art will remind visitors of the hard work that went into creating everyday furniture in the early 1900s.
"I think it's important to show people how they used to live. They used to make chairs like this and they're very sturdy to make and it's just fun. You feel good when you make something and you can say 'gee, I made that," said Warren Alpaugh, Wood Carving Artist.
Locals say the annual July Fest is also a great opportunity to showcase the city of Binghamton to visitors from all across New York State.
"I think it's a great reason for them to come here because it brings people together and also you can come and learn about different people so it promotes the town itself," said Lutwama.
"It really brings people downtown and allows them to see what shops are here and what artists are around. It brings the community together," said Scales.
Many vendors have been participating in July Fest since it was created more than 50 years ago.
July Fest continues for its final day Sunday beginning at 10AM, with concerts starting at 5PM.