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Arts Off Main Fest in Downtown Cortland

Jul 29, 2025
Experience Cortland
3 mins
20230805 arts off main photo credit matt baldelli 03
© Matt Baldelli

Get ready for a day filled with art, music, food, and fun in the heart of downtown Cortland! The Arts Off Main Festival returns on Saturday, August 3, 2025, transforming Main Street into a vibrant, walkable arts district where creativity takes center stage. Whether you’re a longtime art lover or just looking for a unique summer outing, this free, family-friendly festival offers something for everyone. 

Things to Do at Arts Off Main 2025

One of the best things to do in Cortland this summer, Arts Off Main is more than just an art fair - it’s a full-blown celebration of local talent and hands-on creativity. Here are some can't-miss highlights:

Caricature Portraits with Noel Passeri

Get your funny bone (and your cheekbones) ready! Noel Passeri will be on-site creating custom caricature portraits that you’ll treasure forever or at least giggle at for years to come. 

LilySilly Puppet Theater Show & Workshop

Join puppeteer Lily Gershon and guitarist Matthew Ocone for a whimsical puppet show packed with storytelling, live music, and plenty of heart. Lily's interactive workshop will invite young visitors to explore puppetry hands-on, fostering empathy, creativity, and joy.

Interactive Chalk Mural with Molly Reagan

Grab a piece of chalk and leave your mark on Cortland, literally! Local artist Molly Reagan of Good Neighbor Art is back with her popular collaborative chalk mural. Stop by, doodle a masterpiece, and be part of a community work of art.

Live Music All Day Long

Main Street will be humming with music from some of the region’s most talented performers. Here’s the 2025 music lineup: 

  • 12:00 – Steve Daniels (Folk, Americana) 

  • 1:00 – Big Sky Duo (Classic Country) 

  • 2:00 – SingTrece (Soul, Gospel, R&B) 

  • 3:00 – Stan Stewart (Eclectic Singer/Songwriter) 

  • 4:00 – Fall Creek Brass Band (Brassy Funk Fusion) 

20230805 arts off main photo credit matt baldelli 10
© Matt Baldelli
20230805 arts off main photo credit matt baldelli 02
A woman smiling while holding a basket filled with paintings of colorful flowers
Child sitting on the pavement drawing with chalk art.
A table covered with various paintings and greeting cards, showcasing colorful artwork and designs.
© Matt Baldelli

Shop Local: Artists Vendors Galore

With over 25 local artists and makers lining Main Street, this is the perfect place to find one-of-a-kind artwork, jewelry, home goods, and gifts. Browse original paintings, handcrafted ceramics, fiber arts, woodwork, and more. You’ll meet the artists, hear their stories, and take home something truly special. Check out the full list of 2025 artist vendors here. 

Eat, Drink, Explore Downtown Cortland

While you're downtown, fuel your festival fun at one of Cortland’s delicious local eateries. Grab a coffee and sweet treat from Bru 64, enjoy a cozy lunch at one of our many eateries, or sip a cold craft brew at The Cortland Beer Co. Whether you’re in the mood for tacos, sushi, or a classic diner burger, downtown Cortland has something for every craving. Click here for a guide to eateries 

And don’t forget to pop into our downtown shops for books, boutiques, vintage finds, handmade goods, and more.

Plan Your Visit to Arts Off Main

The 2025 Arts Off Main Festival takes place Saturday, August 3rd from 12-5:00 PM on Main Street in downtown Cortland. Admission is free and all ages are welcome!

Make it a full day of art, music, food, and family fun in Cortland County. Mark your calendar and we’ll see you on Main!

Visit cortlandartsconnect.org/2025artsoffmain for more info and vendor details. 

A woman looking at stained glass artwork.
© Matt Baldelli

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Tags: art
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