Clayton's Art and Wine Festival is Different and Better

My family and I attend all the festivals in Clayton and we visit many similar events across the Bay Area. Having been to more than a few, I must say Clayton’s always seems very special.

Last weekend's 16th Annual Art and Wine Festival was held under beautiful blue skies and perfect weather. With no admission fee, events like this are perfect ways for families and friends to enjoy a weekend together.

I can think of no better place to do this than in Clayton.

People from all over the area come to the festival to enjoy the music, great food, drink and to view the diverse arts and crafts on display.

Erland Persson of Walnut Creek, who was attending with a friend, said he has been coming to the festival for more than five years.

“It’s much more charming than any other Bay Area Festival,” he said. “I think Clayton does a much better job than Walnut Creek’s Art and Wine Festival.”

Pat Tousant drove from Albany after seeing an ad in a senior publication. She came to the festival this year for the first time with friends.

“Everything is so green and beautiful. It’s a perfect venue. It’s lovely here and I love all the different vendors,” she said.

With vendors selling a plethora of arts — doggie wear, carved signs, fine print art — it’s difficult to walk away empty handed.

Even with the poor economy, vendors from all over Northern California return  every year.

Henry “Hank” Nuki comes from Sonora to sell hand-made mirrors and bird feeders. “We have been coming here for years and we do pretty good,” he said, adding that  the economy has affected his sales and festivals everywhere.

While other vendors reported that sales are about half what they used to be just four years ago, many claimed that they do well at the Clayton Art and Wine Festival.

“It’s a kick-butt festival for two days,” said Wesley Murphy of Corky’s Carved Signs. He has been bringing his wares to Clayton for more than five years.

One footnote to the Art and Wine Festival (and other Clayton events) is that they are dog friendly. Many public events do not allow dogs. However, there always seems to be a parade of well-behaved dogs, leashed of course, accompanying festival goers. Maybe it’s because I love dogs, but it’s really quite a sight.

Dogs, art, food — the festival is just one more reason why I love Clayton.

View more than 30 photos of the event on the right.