"Mysterious forces draw people to Manitou Springs, Colorado, a little jewel box of a village at the foot of Pikes Peak," according to Andy Newman of the New York Times. Don't let summer slip away without spending a day or weekend here at COMMONWHEEL ARTISTS 34TH ANNUAL LABOR DAY ARTS & CRAFTS FESTIVAL. August 30, 31, and September 1 from 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Once a year, the Commonwheel Artists Co-op community brings together a unique group of regional fine artists and craftspeople to display their diverse artistic talents in Manitou Springs Memorial Park.

With fine art, fine crafts, food, and entertainment, there's something to delight all eyes, ears and tastes ... and admission is free.

Some of the artists showing in the Park have been coming back for over 30 years with new and more exciting work each year. Commonwheel has an ongoing commitment to bringing diverse and awe inspiring work by new and returning artists to Manitou springs for 34 years. One goldsmith was one of the first jewelers to show gold at street fairs more than 30 years ago. His designs are truly unique and people come back each year to see what he has created to make them go "wow" or have him design a unique piece for an upcoming specialoccasion.

From pottery, blown glass, glass fusion, paintings, sculpture, fiber, jewelry, photography, mixed media and more. Prices range to suit every budget.

Some artists' work will bring a smile to your face, like raku smiling animals by Michele Loftis and Sharon Cupit's fantasy based creatures. And everyone can find something to giggle about on one of the jars at Patty deBenedet's pottery booth.

Marvel at painters that paint so realistically you think you can step into the painting and photography that takes you to other lands or shows you a way to look at the world around us with a different perspective.

One returning artist, Hillberry, has been missed. His fine graphite drawings are so delicate and evoke emotions in all who view them.

A glass blower who rivals Chihuley with his exquisite intricate and delicate pieces will be there to answer your question... "Hmmm, how did you ever do that?"

And then there is the food; this year we have more delectable treats than ever. The crepe ladies are back, come early to avoid the wait for their luscious creations. Greek Gyros and a Thai food booth offering Pad Thai, Monkey balls and other exotic creations. New this year are catfish and shrimp dishes. Curly Fries and Funnel cakes are back. Come indulge your taste buds and then cool off with a fresh squeezed lemonade or a fresh fruit smoothie - yummy.

The kids can enjoy our children's activities area. Commonwheel has always encouraged the younger members of our community to express themselves creatively and enjoy artforms just their size. At the Commonwheel Kids booth they are invited to create artwork that they can take home and learn some techniques to use in their own budding art projects.

After finding the perfect art piece, have some food or drink to refresh you and find a seat in front of our stage. All day long you can find a variety of entertainment on our stage. Local musicians offer reggae, blues, jazz, indie and more. Check the Web site or the Gazette pullout on Friday for a schedule and entertainer list. Commonwheel is glad to be able showcase many of our wonderfully talented entertainers and acquaint our visitors with the amazing talent that abounds in the region.

Come spend a day and play at the Commonwheel Artists Labor Day Weekend Festival in Manitou Springs - our "little jewel of the Rockies."

www.commonwheel.com