A popular annual event with a unique "draw" showcases just one more thing to love about Carmel by the Sea, California. Sculptures in the Park is one of several fun events during the three day, annual Carmel Art Festival that includes a Plein Air event, Quick Draw and Kids Art Day. The art festival is slated for May 12 -15, 2011. Admission is FREE! -carmelartfestival.org

One of the most fun events at the Carmel Art Festival includes sculpture installations on the grass lawns of Devendorf Park in the downtown shopping area. Musicians play songs while people are free to roam and admire the works of art that seem right at home in this lush setting. Carmel represents some of the world's top artists in its galleries (well over 20 galleries and art venues,) but on this special weekend, you can see a variety of fine sculptures and often see the artists, themselves, enjoying the festivities.

The seaside village where houses have names instead of addresses, and everyone gets their mail from the post office (a community gathering spot,) has been an artist community long before the city incorporated in 1916. Its first government body was operated with over 50% artists! However, the starving artist reputation that existed when the city formed has been replaced. Lovely Carmel-by-the-Sea, where the cost of living is 101% higher than the national average, is a highly desirable place to live and one of California's top coastal tourist attractions, known for its fine art galleries, pet-friendly policies & romance.