Get ready to quickly step into a world where art meets the pavement. Marietta's beloved M2R TrailFest is gearing to once again transform the Mountain to River Trail into a vibrant tapestry of visual and performing arts on May 11. A favorite among locals and visitors, the festival will feature a slew of new art installations, live performances, and a mile-long display of photography and original artwork along the greenspace that connects the City of Marietta.
This year's lineup includes the unveiling of sculptures in Atherton Square and additions to the already popular mural program. Art enthusiasts and curious spectators alike will have the opportunity to literally experience art drops, free to the public. According to the city's announcement, "The popular M2R Fence Art Gallery featuring photography and original artwork will stretch nearly a mile alongside the trail and will be on display for sixty days before embarking on a yearlong, countywide tour."
The festival ain't just for humans. The second annual Fur Folly Pet Parade invites pets and owners to don costumes and march down the trail in a celebration of creativity and community. The parade kicks off the festivities in advance of the noon opening ceremonies at Atherton Square, the heart of TrailFest. With proceedings starting at 9:30 am and the parade at 10 am, the spectacle culminates in a series of live performances that will dance on until 6 pm.
Executed under the auspices of the Marietta Arts Council and sponsored by SA White Oil, the M2R TrailFest aims to not only entertain but also to support the local arts scene. The arts council focuses to advocate, educate, and spruce up Marietta with public art. For those interested in participating, sponsorship opportunities—including artist and installation pairings—still remain. All the festivities are free and cater to an all-ages crowd.
If you're pining for more information, you can check out full details about the festival at m2rtrailfest.com. Meanwhile, the Mountain to River Trail continues to serve as a thriving artery for future expansions of Marietta's trail system, aiming to connect more corners of the city through pathways that foster interaction, exercise, and a shared appreciation for the arts.
