The San Bernardino Arts Fest, held at the San Manuel Stadium in San Bernardino, showcased the talents of local artists, including those from San Bernardino Valley College. Hundreds of community members attended, including various local schools, community members who showcased their colorful paintings, and musicians who grew up in the area.

Arts Fest attendees were introduced to the event with an opening ceremony performance by SBVC’s elite choral ensemble, Voci Soli. Other live music performances included acts from Sugar Bombs, Alive in the Lights, and the San Bernardino Teen Music Workshop. The sidewalks surrounding the event were covered in chalk art, and an “Author’s Corner” was highlighted the literary arts as well. Live performances were held by the Multi-Cultural Dance Center, Rancho D’vines, Ballet Folklorico Cultural, the Richardson Prep HI Dance Team, and more.

These stages showcased the dances of a wide variety of ages and cultures, making sure that the Arts Fest is inclusive to our very diverse city of San Bernardino. Lilian Ball, a flute player for the San Bernardino Teen Music Workshop, greatly expressed the need for communities to showcase local artists. The flute player states that local events like the Arts Fest can “bring communities together to celebrate the uniqueness of individuals”, and if younger generations see the joy from local performers, “they can see what their dreams look like in real life and that will inspire them to keep going”.

The San Bernardino Arts Fest was a great way to present the artistry of the community in a light that allows others to feel as if they can do the same.