ARToberfest Brings Color to Downtown Abilene by: Joy Lilayon Katete

Downtown Abilene will look a little brighter this fall. ARToberfest, an annual celebration of art, music and community, is set for Oct. 4 from 1 to 5 p.m. at North 2nd and Cedar Street, according to Visit Abilene.

“We want ARToberfest to be a place where art meets community,” Julie Clements, executive director of the Center for Contemporary Arts, said in a news release. “It is about celebrating creativity in a way that brings people together.”

The festival, hosted by the Center for Contemporary Arts, will feature booths from local artists, live music and family-friendly activities. One of the main attractions each year is the sausage cook-off, where teams compete with their best recipes. With a Taster Pass, visitors can sample entries and cast a vote for their favorite.

“The cook-off is always a crowd favorite,” Clements said. “It gives people the chance to taste something unique while supporting the arts.”

Beyond food and music, ARToberfest offers a chance to explore Abilene’s growing creative culture. Local artists display their work in an open-air setting, giving visitors the opportunity to connect directly with the makers behind the pieces. For many, it is one of the few times a year when the art scene feels woven into the daily life of the city streets.

Admission is free, making the event open to the entire community. For the Center for Contemporary Arts, it is also a chance to highlight its year-round mission. The nonprofit supports more than 70 local artists, provides 10 studio spaces, and operates five rotating galleries in downtown Abilene.

“Events like ARToberfest allow our artists to connect directly with the public,” Clements said. “It is a reminder that art is not just in galleries—it is part of our everyday lives.”

Now in its annual return, ARToberfest continues to serve as more than just an afternoon of fun. For the Center, it is a living showcase of how creativity strengthens community ties. With food, music, and art side by side, the event reflects Abilene’s growing appreciation for local talent.

“ARToberfest has something for everyone,” Clements said. “It shows how art can bring people together.”