Music, Art, & Family Fun at New Downtown Fest

Berks Summer Fest recently celebrated its debut at the GoggleWorks Center for the Arts in downtown Reading, marking its fourth year of operation. This free community event successfully combined local music performances with a variety of children's activities and art showcases. Organizers from Berks Arts and GoggleWorks expressed enthusiasm for the new downtown location, citing its walkability and the venue's ability to accommodate both indoor and outdoor programming, which proved useful when rain threatened the festivities.

The partnership between Berks Arts, which produces the festival, and GoggleWorks, the venue host, was described as a natural fit, allowing both organizations to leverage their respective strengths. This year's festival continued a recent approach of featuring local musicians, a strategy that proved successful in drawing attendees and their fan bases. Headliners included popular local bands such as Bennie Sims & The Groovemasters, Caya Sol Reggae Band, and Flamin' Dick & The Hot Rods, alongside a notable jazz performance by the Dexter Sales Quartet.

Beyond the musical acts, the festival offered a wide array of family-friendly attractions. Activities like face painting, arts and crafts, lawn games, and a magician's show were popular draws for attendees, including families who traveled from surrounding areas. Visitors also had the opportunity to explore the GoggleWorks' galleries and studios, and patronize the new Thorn Alley Kitchen. The event also served as a collection point for nonperishable food items benefiting Helping Harvest Fresh Food Bank, embodying a spirit of community giving.