By Robert Haugh

Central Park will once again come alive with music, art, and community spirit as the Santa Clara Art & Wine Festival returns this weekend, Saturday, Sept. 13 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday, Sept. 14 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The Mission City’s annual event brings together residents and visitors alike for two days of family-friendly fun, while raising money for local nonprofits and community groups. 

There will be over 150 artists and craft vendors, live entertainment across two stages, and a wide selection of food, wine, and beer. The festival promises something for everyone. Admission is free.

This year’s festival includes:

• Kids Kingdom near the Magical Bridge Playground, featuring carnival games, food trucks, kids’ activities, and live entertainment tailored for younger audiences. 
• The Santa Clara Safe Routes to School Program will host a Pedestrian Rodeo to promote safety and awareness for children and families.
• A wide variety of delicious food and drinks. Prices for food items range from $4 to $25, and all vendors will be accepting electronic payment only.

Over a dozen Santa Clara-based nonprofit organizations will be serving up crowd favorites, including:

• Boy Scout Troop 394/2: Pancake Breakfast (Sat. only, 8 a.m. – 12 p.m.)
• MacDonald High School PTA: Soda, Water, Snacks (Sat. only)
• Wilcox Robotics: Funnel Cake
• Santa Clara Host Lions: Linguica Sandwiches, Corn on the Cob
• St. Clare Hispanic Community: Taco Plates, Quesadillas
• Teen Challenge: BBQ Plates, Chicken Rice Bowls, Corn Dogs

Professional food vendors and trucks will also be present, including:

• Watsonville Munchies: Quesabirria tacos, pizza birria
• La Papa’s Baked Potatoes: Baked potatoes with a variety of toppings
• King Cobb Corn: Corn on the cob with toppings
• Kona Ice
• Churros El Guero
• Lucy’s Fruits
• Lillie Mae’s BBQ (Saturday only)
• The Cookout Fish & Chips (Sunday only)
• BBQ Kalbi (Sunday only)
  

Beer and wine will be served by the Rotary Club of Santa Clara, with details available at the “Beer & Wine” booth.

The Water & Sewer Utilities Department encourages attendees to bring reusable water bottles—the Tap Water Express station will offer free, ice-cold water refills.

Parking is limited, and festivalgoers are strongly encouraged to walk, bike, or carpool. Here’s what you need to know:

• Paid Parking: Fatjo Field Lot: $15 (proceeds benefit local charities) and St. Justin Catholic Church (2655 Homestead Rd.): $20
• Handicap Parking available on Patricia Drive, CRC Lot, and Pavilion Lot.