BAR HARBOR, Maine—For seven glorious days each June, the Bar Harbor Chamber of Commerce pays tribute to its artistic heritage by sponsoring “Legacy of the Arts ” - a village-wide celebration of arts related events

The 11th annual celebration is June 20th - June 27, 2009. For the 59th year, the Chamber of Commerce hosts an outdoor art show comprised of the best works of regional artists. Numerous genres are represented by more than 30 artists offering for sale original works of art in a multitude of genre. The show is 9:00 AM-5:00 PM Saturday and Sunday rain or shine on the Village Green.

Bands and concerts draw big crowds and there’s a wide selection of music for every taste. Outdoor performances are held on the Village Green Monday through Thursday evening at 7:00 PM with “Harbor Blue” Thursday’s headliner. The multi-talented Marilyn Ryan and Willy Kelly play acoustic, bluegrass, blues, and a little bit of old rock n roll. The pair opened for Leo Kottke as well as “the Father of Bluegrass Music,” Bill Monroe, when he appeared in Maine.

“Spirited Folk” performs at Agamont Park at 8:00 PM Sunday June 21. The audience can’t help but sing and stomp along with the lively trio to their renditions in the Pete Seeger tradition. Russell and Jeff take to the Agamont stage Wednesday, June 24 at 7:00 PM. The pair bills their entertainment as “a weirdo, a buffoon, and a pile of instruments.” The Cat Ferry Terminal is the seaside venue for “A Bit of Acadie” at 12:00 Noon- 2:00 PM on the 24th. The eclectic duo use homemade instruments, blending East Coast, Acadian, and rock and roll. The audience is treated to stories from Nova Scotia, Acadian ballads, and an overall toe-tapping good time.

The Thirsty Whale hosts a pair of popular bands the second weekend of the event. On June 26, it’s Vincent Gabriel, aka “Blind Albert,” an established no-holds barred blues and rock performer - his style is rich in melody and emotion. On the 27th return for “Dirty Martini,” a local band playing an eclectic mix of blues rock and funk.

“Gilbert & Sullivan Ala Carte” is in concert at the Bar Harbor Congregational Church on June 26 starting at 7:00 PM. The group performs concerts of selections from many of the Savoy Operas of W.S. Gilbert and Arthur Sullivan.

Musicians represent just one genre of artists appearing at “Legacy of the Arts.” The schedule includes plein air painters, sculptors, dancers, carvers, magicians, storytellers, basket weavers, even a comedy troupe.

An architectural tour and luncheon is set for June 24 at Saviors Episcopal Church. The stately landmark is graced with forty-two stained-glass windows as well as numerous examples of Louis Comfort Tiffany's artistry.

Events for kids include a workshop at the Abbe Museum on Saturday the 27th. Passamaquoddy birch bark artist and canoe maker David Moses Bridges entertains with stories and shows children how to create works of wearable art fashioned from birch bark.

Most events are free. Those requiring a fee specify on the schedule. Check back often for all the latest developments for the 11th annual “Legacy of The Arts,” June 20-27 in Bar Harbor.

For more information, please see: www.legacyartsfestival.com