The 59th annual Pembroke Arts Festival returned to the Community Center on August 8 and 9 with a host of activities catering to young and old alike. In addition to a juried art show and a Young Artists Gallery featuring the work of artists throughout the South Shore, the PAF committee incorporated a classic car show, Touch a Truck, activities for the kids and a variety of musical performances. The Pembroke Farmers Market set up shop next to the Community Center and local businesses participated in Pembroke Community Day.
Outside, despite the 90-degree-plus heat, visitors perused booths staffed by local craftspeople selling their wares. Items ranged from hand-crocheted clothing to paintings and various handmade curios.
Photos by Brittany Murphy
Crafters were also set up inside the community center.
Some vendors beat the heat by selling their products inside. Photos by Brittany Murphy
Inside the air-conditioned center, artwork hung throughout. Members of the art committee were on hand to answer questions and give incite into the festival. Prize ribbons hung alongside the award winners. Winner or not, all the art was incredible. Opposite the adults entries was the children’s artwork.
Photos by Brittany Murphy
Photos by Mike Corkren
The children's art was wonderful. All the entered children’s work was displayed. Photos by Mike Corkren
Static displays weren't the only thing inside. Artists manning an art-in-action booth painted in real time as visitors looked on. There were many hands on activities for children to express their artistic abilities.
Artist Paula Villanova painted in the art-in-action booth. Photos by Brittany Murphy and Mike Corkren
While patrons were enjoying the art inside, the green was alive with music. Steel drummer Kent Yarde filled the air with a Caribbean sound. Mr. Yarde had a small steel drum next to his setup where young ones tried their hand at this unique percussion instrument.
Next to the the steel drums a station was setup for face painting and balloon animals.
Meghan Donofrio was the first performer on stage, playing her guitar, singing and delighting the crowd with fan favorites. Dance performances included a tributes to the Rocky Horror Picture Show and Austin Powers. The audience sang along to the tunes of Time Warp and Hot Patootie – Bless My Soul. Dancers alternated with musical groups with the ages of the performers ranging from very young to very experienced.
Dancers from ADK Dance Studio and the Pembroke School of Performing Arts entertained the crowd. Photos by Mike Corkren
Across Mattakeesett Street, on the grass of Veterans Park, was a line up of classic, modern and antique cars. Chrome glistened in the mid-morning sun and polished paint reflected the fans smiling faces. Sponsored by the Pembroke Dull Men's Club, car enthusiasts roamed among the displays, taking pictures and perhaps dreaming of the day they could own a similar show car.
Photos by Mike Corkren
Classic and Antique cars filled Veterans park. Photos by Brittany Murphy and Mike Corkren
The side parking lot of the community center hosted the “Touch a Truck” display. Two big rigs sat beside a decked out pickup. An excavator, bulldozer and giant front end loader made up the construction equipment exhibit.
Touch a Truck was a big hit with the kids. Photos by Mike Corkren
High above the green, nestled in the parking lot of the Boys and girls Club, the Farmers Market sold fresh vegetables, farm fresh meats, spices and rubs, flowers, and assorted arts and crafts.
Fresh vegetables were a staple at the farmers market. Photos by Brittany Murphy and Mike Corkren
The 2026 Arts Festival had something for everyone. There was no shortage of things to do or see. The extra activities were a big hit with the attendees. We’ll have to see what the Arts Committee has planned for the festival in 2027. The success of this year bodes well for the its future.
PCJ was out asking our Question of the week at the Arts Festival. See how your neighbors answered by clicking here:
Mike Corkren
