Although they graduated from the University in May, Amy Hollis and Kim Fleck both found their way back into town for the 28th Annual Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts.

From pottery and giant sand castles to outdoor concerts and scores of paintings, downtown State College was once again transformed into a virtual cultural mecca for five days as the festival and its attendees took over the streets.

"This is my first time at Arts Fest," said Hollis, who now lives in Altoona. "I've seen a lot of people I know."

Fleck, also of Altoona, said she was interested in seeing which artists would be selected to participate in the festival considering the large number of applicants.

Roughly 200,000 people descended on downtown State College for the annual event. They came not only to see the art and listen to the music, but to see old friends and catch the festive atmosphere. But whatever the reason, many people return year after year to enjoy the festival's sights and sounds.

As streets became crowded with busy festival goers, Leslie Peters of State College took a break from her shopping to watch people.

"I just like to see the different people that come into town for this," she said.

Matt Ramer of Cherry Hill, N.J. said he did not know about the Arts Festival and came down to see a classmate.

"I was originally motivated to come here to see my friend and was pleasantly surprised by the arts and crafts show," he said.

Cindy Kenealy of State College said she and her family enjoy listening to the music and walking by the booths.

"We've lived here seven years and we've been coming for seven years," she said.

And many University students also took the time to see the festival. Going from class to class with loaded backpacks, many students paused briefly to gaze into the occasional stall.

Abbi Cox (senior-molecular and cell biology) said she enjoys the Arts Festival because "you just walk 10 feet and you see someone you know that you haven't seen in a while."

Randy Schwartz (freshman-mechanical engineering) said he came to the festival to find a harmonica.

"I've been looking for a harmonica for a couple of weeks now," he said. "Maybe I'll be able to find one I can afford down here."

Bonnie Hyman (senior-health education) said she wanted to "find something to buy when I can afford it after graduation."