On this episode of Along the Rock, host Kierstyn Long speaks with festival organizers Lynn Roe and Becky Hage about what attendees can expect at this year’s event and why the festival remains a treasured part of the region.
Now in its 77th year, the festival will take place from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the John Deere Historic Site in Grand Detour on Sunday, September 13th. The free, rain-or-shine event offers visitors an opportunity to browse original artwork from more than 50 artists, enjoy live music, sample food from local vendors, tour the historic John Deere home, and watch live blacksmith demonstrations.
One of the festival’s signature attractions is its student art show, which is open to young artists from kindergarten through age 18. Students may submit both two-dimensional and three-dimensional artwork, whether they attend a public or private school, are homeschooled, or create independently. Entries are judged separately from the adult show, and participants have the opportunity to earn monetary awards that encourage them to continue developing their artistic talents.
Festival organizers emphasized that seeing young artists proudly display their work has become one of the event’s most rewarding traditions. The excitement of students viewing their artwork alongside that of professional artists reflects the festival’s commitment to fostering creativity across generations.
The festival itself traces its roots back to 1948, when local artist Charles Casted and several fellow artists created an outdoor exhibit along the fence surrounding the John Deere Historic Site. Except for one year during the COVID-19 pandemic, the festival has continued annually, eventually expanding inside the historic site’s grounds while maintaining its connection to the community’s history.
That sense of tradition remains central to the event today. Organizers and volunteers, many of whom have deep ties to Grand Detour, continue working together to preserve the festival for future generations. A special “Tradition Continues” award is presented each year to recognize an outstanding first-time exhibiting artist, reinforcing the festival’s commitment to welcoming new talent while honoring its longstanding history.
Artists still have a limited opportunity to participate in this year’s festival by submitting a late application through the event’s new online registration platform. Organizers say the streamlined system has simplified the application process while also attracting several first-time exhibitors.
For artists planning ahead, the festival offers tent rentals on a first-come, first-served basis, making participation more accessible for newcomers and those who prefer assistance with setup.
Community support has played a vital role in sustaining the festival throughout its history. Local businesses, organizations, and individual donors continue to provide financial support for both the adult and student exhibitions, ensuring the event remains free for visitors while continuing to recognize artists of all ages.
With fine art, live entertainment, local food, history, and family-friendly activities all in one location, the Grand Detour Art Festival continues to offer a full day of experiences while celebrating the artistic spirit that has defined the event for 77 years.
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