In the winter of 2000 a small group of friends had an idea to create a local art festival. They realized that there was a wealth of artistic talent in the Williamston area but no event to showcase the artists. The friends also realized that beautiful McCormick Park, which is the center piece of Williamston, would be the perfect venue to celebrate art. A steering committee was soon organized and word spread as the development of the festival became a reality. On July 15, 2001 the event premiered as “Williamston’s ArtFest on the River.” The success of the initial summer festival led to the establishment of Team ArtFest in 2002, a non/profit corporation whose sole purpose was to produce and promote ArtFest. In ensuing years, Team ArtFest had developed a statewide reputation for providing an excellent fine art festival, art education programs and cultural experiences, and also as having a passionate and hospitable volunteer base. Many of the festival artists commented on how well they were treated at ArtFest. Their appreciation was evident in the loyalty of repeat art vendors.

The all/volunteer member base which forms Team ArtFest was dedicated to their mission statement:

• To highlight the artistic resources (local artists) available in Williamston and surroundingcommunities

• To provide art education and experiences to our youth

• To encourage the development of cultural activities in our community

• To promote Williamston's business environment

By 2007, ArtFest received support from all sections of the community from civic organizations, churches, schools and businesses to city and township government. The festival was attributed to spearheading the movement to establish Williamston as a cultural destination. Team ArtFest, as a group, also supported the activities of the community through involvement and donations (for example: the team participated in the annual parades and volunteers in other activities.) This community involvement and support is a reflection of the attitude felt in the small town of Williamston.

From 2001 through 2007 ArtFest had become a community tradition and a cultural destination in historic Williamston. However, a series of adversities in 2008/2010 put the festival on hold until McCormick Park could be renovated and leadership could be reestablished. By the fall of 2011, the original Team ArtFest leadership was approached by the City of Williamston to bring the festival back with primary support from the City. Up until 2011, the City had not recognized ArtFest as a city event even though the City Council and the Downtown Development Authority had provided generous grants to help fund the festival.

The rebirth of ArtFest for the summer of July 2012 is much anticipated by the community. As in years past, there will be live music and dance performances, minstrel entertainment, a Kids/Young Adult Art Tent, Marshall Music Instrument Petting Zoo, art demonstrations, up to 80 fine art booths and much more. Team ArtFest in partnership with the City of Williamston strives to keep the cost of the festival low to provide free access to all the activities.

McCormick Park is barrier free and features walking paths lined with wood sculptures, a concession building with baths, a band shell, a pier over the Red Cedar River, two play grounds, athletic fields, and a Veteran's Memorial. Free parking is close by in the new parking lot. The park is ready, the artists are eager, Team ArtFest volunteers and City staff are busy finalizing the festival details! We invite you to join us in Williamston for the return of Williamston's ArtFest on the River / truly a big city event with small town charm!