By SABRINA BERNDT

Washington Daily News

This year’s Bath Fest promises a “musical story” while sticking to its artistic roots.

Saturday, the Historic Bath State Historic Site will be hosting Music From Our Shores: Sounds of the State From the Past to the Present during Bath Fest. Straying from its typical artistic theme, the fest will feature a full day of musical performances as well as local artwork from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

“Every year we want to show how art meets history by following the historic site’s theme,” said Phoebe Wahab, a Bath Fest committee member. “This year, the theme happened to be music and the year of the woman.”

Wahab said Bath Fest’s partnership with the Beaufort County Traditional Music Association will showcase an evolution of musical styles through acts like Dana Lewis, Dave Raducha, Lightnin’ Wells and Captain Dick & The Lost Seamen, as well as a performance by the Bath Junior High Chorus.

Also included on the schedule are colonial games, crafting maracas and the annual student art show where artwork from Bath Elementary School students is displayed in the backyard of the Bonner House and judged based on the artist’s grade level.

“Highlighting the students’ artwork has always been a big focus for Bath Fest,” Wahab said. “The kids win ribbons, and it’s always a great time for families.”

Although this year’s theme focuses on music, Bath Fest will still host a variety of art and craft vendors on Front Street and South Main Street. There will be a mix of homemade pottery, birdhouses, watercolor paintings, oil paintings, woodcrafts and crocheted items for purchase. Local civic groups will also be selling food to attendees.

According to Wahab, the day will be a great opportunity to enjoy historic Bath.

“Bonner’s Point is one of the prettiest spots in the state,” Wahab said. “With its beautiful setting and historic homes, it’s a perfect spot to spend a Saturday afternoon.”