Alley Art Festival returns to Aurora's Water Street Mall Aug. 31

Alley Art Festival is back for its ninth year, bringing dozens of local artists to downtown Aurora's pedestrian-friendly Water Street Mall from noon to 5 p.m. Saturday. Aug. 31.

More than 60 artists will sell their art, jewelry, pottery, handmade goods, and more.

The grass-roots festival is an opportunity to meet and support local artists. The family-friendly festival welcomes returning artists and many new artists this year.

Patrons will be able to meet artists and purchase their work while enjoying a fun-filled afternoon of arts and entertainment.

Live music kicks off at noon on the new Agnes Mundy Park stage with Zach Goforth, then Town Band at 3 p.m. and headliner August West at 4 p.m.

The PIEproject Foundation will offer free yoga at 1 p.m., and members of the Eastern Fire Belly Dance will perform at 2 p.m.

Vendors include Fox Valley Robotics, Paramount School of the Arts, Aurora 88s, and The Venue.

"Alley Art Festival continues to be an opportunity for local artists to network and be seen in the community. It's a day that shows how artists help our city to prosper," said Marissa Amoni, manager for Aurora Downtown.

Amoni started the festival in 2010 with the help of artists Jen Evans, Lisa Gloria, and Nate Miller.

The festival is sponsored by Aurora Downtown and the city of Aurora.

Parking is available in Lot Q and Lot R, and the Stolp Island parking deck at Stolp/Downer Place.

For a full lineup of artists and performers, visit www.alleyartaurora.com.

For more information on downtown events, visit www.auroradowntown.org.