Members of the Salt Meadow Park Advisory Committee are announcing several upcoming events that will not only provide free fun for residents, but introduce them to one of the town’s lesser-known recreational gems. Located on Route 1, Salt Meadow Park will hold an art festival and also several concerts this summer as well as complete a dog park on the site, according to committee members.

The inaugural Salt Meadow Art in the Park Festival will be held on Saturday, May 21 and will bring in a number of area artists to display and sell their creations, according to Advisory Committee Chair Alex Wetmore. The festival will also feature, food, games, and more for a day of family fun.

“We are always looking for ways to drum up attendance and awareness for the park, which is really a nature sanctuary to an extent,” Wetmore said. “We try and create events that will be low impact to the environment and we just felt like this event was a natural fit. To have artists and artisans come in and display their work and their items for sale in this natural setting is in keeping with that ideal.”

According to Wetmore, the festival will have a strong and diverse assemblage of artists selling wares.

“We have 11 or 12 vendors so far and it is ranging from everything from fine arts to decorative wood sculptures to embroidery to hemp products, candles, photography, and even jewelry,” Wetmore said. “There will be a wide range of artisans.”

Patrons are always welcome to bring their own food into the park, but there will also be several trucks available for attendees.

“We really want to kick off the summer with an outdoor arts and crafts festival. So far, we have an ice cream vendor lined up and a pizza vendor, so there will be some food trucks there for folks as well,” said Wetmore.

“I think it’s important to have a local community gathering event. Similar events have been held at Madison Beach Hotel, Hammonasset puts on festivals on occasion, and just like Bauer Park has their events, we are trying to launch these community events that really give exposure to local artists,” said Wetmore.

The committee is also announcing a summer concert series. There is a beautiful stage set against the marsh and patrons are encouraged to bring a blanket or lawn chair and listen to some soothing music in the setting sun.

“Our summer concert series will be launching in June and there will be a concert per month,” said Wetmore. “By the last concert last year, we had more than 100 people attending, so we think everyone will be looking forward to that. The concerts are free and residents can find out more about lineups via the town website” www.madisonct.org.

Wetmore said the committee is also dedicated to introducing the park to residents, many of whom are not aware of just how beautiful and accessible the park is.

“We have a lot going on. We are building a dog park at Salt Meadow, which we hope to have open soon. We are building a totally green restroom there. So again, there is a very green and sensitive element to the construction. There are wonderful nature paths to explore throughout the park, and also a kayak launch as well, so we really want residents to take full advantage of the park,” said Wetmore. “It is such a great venue that I don’t think people really utilize. The event will be a great way to expose residents to everything we have to offer here at the park. We hope everyone will come out and enjoys the park this year.”

According to the park regulations, dogs are allowed in the parking lot and on walking trails only until completion of the Dog Park in summer 2022. Dogs must be on a leash and under the control of handler/owner.

There are some restricted activities at Salt Meadow Park. The following activities need a permit, which can be obtained at the Recreation Office at the Town Campus complex.

• Use and operation of mechanically powered model airplanes, rockets, boats, and miniature vehicles

• The sale of food, beverages, or merchandise

• Picnics, outings, or similar group gatherings involving more than 50 persons including organized sports

• The possession or use of alcohol is not permitted in the park.

Salt Meadow Park is located at 1362 Boston Post Road/Route 1 in Madison. The Art in the Park Fest will run Saturday, May 21 from 12:00-3:00pm, admission is free. Unless the weather is so inclement that it is drenching in nature, the event will move to the park’s pavilion. For more information, visit www.madisonct.org/1177/Art-in-the-Park.