Indulge in culinary creativity with the Manhattan Arts Center at the first annual MAC & Cheese Arts & Music Festival from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m April 13. 

Sink your spoon into a handmade pottery bowl, with proceeds going to Common Table, a Manhattan organization whose mission is to combat food insecurity one meal at a time. 

After purchasing an artisanal bowl, customers can sample a variety of specialty mac and cheese recipes served by a lineup of local food trucks, each bringing its own flavorful twist to the beloved classic.

By making a donation, attendees also get the chance to play food critic, voting on their favorite cheesy creations.

Set against the backdrop of the Manhattan Arts Center parking lot, this festival promises not just mac and cheese but also live music, art vendors and a beer garden. 

The festival will also include live demonstrations showcasing the diverse array of classes the Manhattan Arts Center offers, from printmaking to clay sculpting; watercolor painting to unleashing your inner Jackson Pollock at the splatter paint tent; and even strumming your way through ukulele lessons.

The Manhattan Arts Center believes in its motto “Arts for All,” so whether you’re a seasoned creative or just trying something new for the first time, there’s something at the festival for everyone, regardless of age or skill level.

For the fashion-forward, the festival will also host a costume sale where festival goers can purchase past wardrobe pieces worn by Manhattan Arts Center performers.

You can step inside the art gallery and view the newest art collection, “Automatic Writing” by artist Rick Gadbois, from April 8 to May 10. 

The MAC & Cheese Arts & Music Festival still needs volunteers behind the scenes. Anyone ready to roll up their sleeves and lend their creativity can sign up at manhattanarts.org.

Join the Manhattan Arts Center for the cheesiest, art-filled experience in town to indulge your taste buds and ignite your creativity.