Enjoy the arts at two popular festivals taking place in Richmond this month.

Cottonwood Art Festival

What: Catch 240 artists as they compete across over a dozen categories.

This semi-annual celebration dates back over five decades to 1969. Held the first weekend of each May and October, this iconic event has “become a tradition in the community and the home to the finest artists in the country,” according to the festival’s website.

This year, the spring event will feature Gregory Story, a ceramicist who grew up in South Texas, as the featured artist.

“Cottonwood puts together a well-run show that really supports its artists. It’s in a beautiful park. The audience that comes to the show are sophisticated and interested in individuality and unique perspectives. These folks aren’t also buying art at craft stores, they’re coming to Cottonwood for the real thing.” said Story, per the Cottonwood Art Festival website.

For more details, visit the website.

When: Saturday, May 4, 10 a.m.-7 p.m. and Sunday, May 5, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Where: Cottonwood Park, 1321 W. Belt Line Rd.

Wildflower! Arts & Music Festival

What: This large event boasts six stages with live musical performances, including the festival’s Battle of the Bands. If that’s not enough, expect to see acrobats, buskers, and other strolling entertainers.

Aspiring songwriters should head to the festival early. Terri Hendrix and Lloyd Maines are hosting a workshop on Friday starting at 9:00 a.m., sharing tips on kickstarting your songwriting creativity. The cost for the workshop is $50 per person. Registration includes lunch and a ticket to the festival.

For more details and to purchase tickets, visit the website.

When: Friday, May 17, 6 p.m.-12 a.m., Saturday, May 18, 11 a.m.-12 a.m., and Sunday, May 19, 11 a.m.-6 p.m.

Where: Galatyn Park Urban Center, 2351 Performance Dr.