Heritage Park in downtown Foley will once again transform into an open-air gallery when the 53rd-annual Art in the Park returns May 10-11, bringing a vibrant celebration of creativity and community to Baldwin County.

Hosted by the Foley Art Center, the juried fine arts festival showcases the work of more than 80 artists from across the region. The free, family-friendly event runs from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday.

Attendees will discover an array of handcrafted treasures ranging from oil paintings, watercolors and pen-and-ink illustrations to pottery, stained glass, wood carvings, porcelain, fused glass, textiles and artisan jewelry. The festival offers a unique shopping experience just in time for Mother's Day.

Children will find plenty to enjoy as well, with face painting and interactive activities in an expanded kids' zone. A youth art exhibition featuring students from Foley Middle and High schools and Elberta High School will also be on display. The annual youth art showcase has grown to highlight the artistic talents of local students and plays a key role in the festival's legacy.

Each year, the Foley Art Center selects the following year's festival design from the youth exhibit. This year's winning artwork, created by Foley High School 10th grader Laila Al-Biyati, will appear on official festival T-shirts and posters. Shirts will be available at the Art Center's tent for $15 in sizes S-L and $20 for XL, XXL and XXXL. Al-Biyati is scheduled to appear Saturday morning to sign shirts for attendees.

Founded in 1966, the Foley Art Center has been a cultural cornerstone along the Gulf Coast for nearly six decades. In addition to hosting events like Art in the Park, the center offers art classes, grants and programs that support more than 5,000 local students annually, made possible through community and business support.

For more information, visit www.foleyartcenter.com, email thefoleyartcenter@gmail.com or call (251) 943-4381.