Dallas City Arts Celebration 2006

The term art is hard to define. Writer Amy Lowell described art as "the desire of a man to express himself, to record the reactions of his personality to the world he lives in." The dynamic city of Dallas is expressed not only in paintings, but also in music, theatre, dance, cuisine, and creations in every conceivable media. It's impossible to separate art from culture. The second weekend in June, the City Arts Celebration returns to the Dallas Arts District to reflect the vibrant personality of the community. The free event encourages local and visiting families to experience a broad range of culinary, visual, and performing arts.

Credit Philip Jones of the Dallas Convention & Visitors Bureau for creating an event to showcase the city's diverse resources and increase cultural tourism. The first City Arts attracted 20,000 enthusiasts. Last year, 50,000 came. Success breeds success. The increased awareness of the city's leading role in the international arts scene, in addition to exciting new offerings this year, guarantee record attendance.

"It's a showcase for the largest urban arts district in the U.S.," says Mr. Jones. "[Dallas has] the most incredible cultural collection throughout the state. We wanted locals to be able to experience these world class institutions here in Dallas, get excited about it, and help tell visitors."

The Dallas Museum of Art, the Nasher Sculpture Center, and the Crow Collection of Asian Art will all offer special programming and free admission City Arts Weekend. Art will storm the streets in exhibits of fine art, artisan crafts, and photography. Culinary arts are well represented at the Medical City Heart Culinary Arts Tent, cooking demonstrations, and necessary to any great festival, lots of tempting vendors. Outdoor stages will feature multicultural music and dance performances and children's activities. From jazz to country to classical, including the Dallas Symphony Orchestra, live performances will entertain the entire family. Joining City Arts this year is a showcase of musicians from Louisiana, who have called Texas home since Hurricane Katrina. Also new this year is Friday evening programming of concerts and arts showcases.

"Lots of people in the metro area have never been to the Arts District," Mr. Jones notes, "and now they can have a firsthand family friendly experience with great music and great food."

Dallas has long been on the map for fashion and football. Now, arts, culture, and cuisine get the recognition they deserve.