Festival creates fellowship and faith

Throughout scripture, God’s people gathered for festivals that were about much more than religious observance. Festivals such as the Passover, the Feast of Weeks, and the Feast of Tabernacles brought people together for worship, celebration, music, fellowship and shared experiences.

In many ways, these gatherings share a common theme with the Brookings Arts Festival our community enjoys every year.

Biblical festivals were community events. Families traveled together, neighbors camped together, meals were shared and stories were passed from one generation to the next.

These gatherings strengthened relationships and reminded people they belonged to something larger than themselves. In much the same way, the Brookings Art Festival draws people from different walks of life into a shared space where connections are formed and community is celebrated.

Music played an important role in biblical celebrations. The Psalms frequently mention singing, dancing and playing instruments in praise to God. Today’s Art Festival continues that tradition of bringing people together through music. Whether listening to a band or a solo performer, music creates a sense of community and shared joy. It is common for people to have their “regular” spot on the grass in front of the band shell every year.

Ancient Israelites often reunited with relatives and friends they had not seen since the previous pilgrimage festival. Likewise, our local Arts Festival becomes an annual reunion where people reconnect. The festival experience reminds us that community is built not only through formal structures but through laughter, conversation and time spent together.

Even the presence of vendors has biblical parallels. Festival marketplaces provided opportunities for travelers to purchase food, supplies and goods needed for the celebration. Modern arts festivals feature artists, food vendors and local businesses that contribute to the vibrancy of the event. Vendors do more than sell products; they help create a gathering place where creativity, hospitality and local culture flourish.

Perhaps most importantly, both biblical festivals and contemporary arts festivals remind us human beings are created for community.

People long to gather, celebrate, create, sing, eat and share life together. While the purposes may differ, all kinds of festivals offer opportunities to strengthen relationships and experience the joy that comes from gathering.

As the Psalmist declares, “How very good and pleasant it is when kindred live together in unity” (Psalm 133: 1). Whether around a biblical feast table or at the local Arts Festival filled with music, vendors, friends and laughter, we catch a glimpse of the blessing that comes when a community gathers in joy.

For fifty-five years, the Brookings Summer Arts Festival has become much more than an annual event — it is a celebration of creativity, connection and the enduring spirit of our community. Each year, neighbors, families, visitors, artists, musicians and volunteers gather to create memories reminding us of what it means to belong. In a world that often feels hurried and divided, the Arts Festival offers a welcoming place where conversation and laughter flourish. The festival stands as a testament to the power of creativity — celebrating not only art, music and food but also hospitality, generosity and the belief that when people gather communities become stronger.

While art may begin with individual expression, its greatest impact is often found in the connections it creates among people. As we enjoy the festival this weekend may we be reminded that the arts have a unique ability to bring beauty, joy and hope into our shared life together.