Celebrating artists from the Lehigh Valley and beyond for decades, “Art in the Park” returns to West Park, 16th and West Turner streets, Allentown, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Sept. 14.

“Art in the Park has always been about bringing people together through creativity,” says “Art in the Park” director Alan Younkin.

“This year, we’re thrilled to present a remarkably diverse and dynamic group of artists who truly represent the cutting edge of contemporary art,” Younkin says.

For the 49th event, 130 artists are expected to exhibit and sell a variety of works, from original ceramics, drawings, prints, glass, jewelry, paintings, photography, sculpture, and weaving to art made from recycled or re-purposed materials. Nine artists will demonstrate their creative process.

Joining the artists in Allentown’s oldest park, which opened in 1908, are 18 arts-related community groups, along with food and drink vendors.

Among those scheduled to perform on the park’s bandstand are the Allentown Band, El Sistema Lehigh Valley Orchestra, Church of the Mediator Choir, Civic Theatre of Allentown, Community Music School, MunOpCo Music Theatre, Repertory Dance Theater, William Allen High School Dance, and William Allen High School Marching Band.

Across the street from West Park, the Allentown Masonic Temple, 1524 W. Linden St., has free tours of its Lodge, providing attendees with a rare opportunity to visit the inside of the national historic site.

“Art in the Park,” founded in 1971, is presented by the West Park Civic Association.

The event is held rain or shine.

Information: www.art-in-the-park.org

“Gallery View” is a column about artists, exhibitions and galleries. To request coverage, email: Paul Willistein, Focus editor, pwillistein@tnonline.com