MEDFORD, Ore. — Downtown Medford will come alive with color, creativity, and community spirit this weekend as Art in Bloom returns for its 20th anniversary after a four-year break. The popular springtime street festival takes place Saturday, May 10 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, May 11 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Lithia Commons and surrounding streets.

This year’s event marks a highly anticipated comeback. Originally paused in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Art in Bloom had become a hallmark of Medford’s cultural calendar. Drawing more than 20,000 attendees in its final year before the hiatus.

“I wasn’t sure it would work,”  longtime event promoter Cindy Bedingfield said, who, along with Amy Rose, helped launch and grow the event over two decades. “If I could get 30 vendors to come back, I’d do it. Now I have a waiting list. I’m thrilled.”

More than 60 artists, artisans, and horticulturists will be on hand this year, offering everything from handcrafted jewelry and paintings to floral arrangements and garden goods. But the event offers more than just shopping.

Bedingfield emphasized Art in Bloom’s deep community roots and nonprofit focus. “We support nonprofit youth organizations,” she said. “There’s an area just for kids to make free gifts for mom. It’s just a fun, relaxed atmosphere that brings everyone together.”

This year’s festival features youth art activities, live entertainment, chalk art demonstrations, and hands-on stations where children can plant flowers, write poems, and craft homemade gifts. Local groups like Walking Tall, Life Art, and Youth 715 will be among the organizations showcasing their work and missions.

“There’s just something different about a street festival,” Bedingfield said. “The sunshine, the trees, the energy, it’s like a family reunion for the community.”

Art in Bloom is free to attend and open to all ages.