This past weekend, I did the Allen West Arts Fest in Allentown / Buffalo, NY. I stayed at the Holiday Inn right in the mix of the Allentown Art Festival which goes on at the same time. I do not know what you folks who do that show are told about security, but from what I could see, it is literally non-exixtant. I walked the block of our hotel quite a few times in the evening hours, and was amazed by how many artists left their booths intact. I could absolutely have driven my truck up to any booth and loaed it up without anyone asking me what I was doing. I travel all over and do a lot of different type shows, trusting the security, and I was apalled at the lack thereof at this event. I'm not saying I saw anyone fooling with the tents, I'm just saying anyone could, and no one would have stopped them. Please just keep this in mind next year... and remember this is quite a 'party' town just a few blocks away.
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I have done the Allentown Arts Festival a number of times, also staying at the Holiday Inn, with my booth about 8 or so booths up from the hotel, next to the Walgreens. So I have been exactly where you are talking about. And, yes, guilty of leaving my work in the booth overnight, putting it down low (pottery).
It is strange I know, that all of us would do that. My main concern was always the traffic, as they open the streets to it after the show is closed.
I would not suggest leaving work up, but none of us had any problems that I am aware of, except last year when I was in a different area, my trailer was vandalized in the parking lot.
I didn't do the show this year as I feel I've saturated Buffalo with my work; too many people walk by and tell me they still have the pot they purchased from me.
What is Allentown West?
Judy
it's a 'piggy back' show to the main festival..very 'street fair' ... a lot of drunks.. .... a couple blocks away... but mostly all the same customers. we have to break down each night as they open the streets for the bars...but display is not a big issue here, most are just there to sell, and sell we do!
Again, I also, havent heard of issues, I just think people should be aware.