Members of THE FARM demonstrate belt-loop solidarity.

The fifth annual Ashley for the Arts festival in Arcadia is not just any old art fair. This turducken of an arts event features hot air balloons, a car show, air park, youth obstacle course, 10- or 26-mile bike race, 5K run/walk, and kids’ activities and fireworks, rolled inside a big arts show with live music and artist exhibitions, and all wrapped up in an even bigger charity fundraiser. This year’s live music lineup includes almost 20 acts, featuring a pair of nationally and internationally known artists – country trio THE FARM on Aug. 9 and singer-songwriter Matt Nathanson on Aug. 10 – as well as regional and local groups, including music performed by students who benefit from Ashley for the Arts funding. Over the two-day festival, musicians will perform at two stages, both the pavilion and the 4,000-seat amphitheater. The fine art booths will showcase some of the region’s top artists and host interactive art activities for kids. Athletic activities are open to hard-core athletes as well as more casual participants; registration is open online for the American Cancer Society 5K run/walk, the Pursuit of the Arts bike race and the You Crazy Monkey! youth obstacle course. Proud motorheads can also register online to exhibit their glorious autos at the Cruisin’ for the Arts car show. Ashley for the Arts is a non-profit organization that works to promote the arts locally and globally, and the Ashley for the Arts event benefits medical research, children’s charities, and local schools. Tickets for the two-day event are $5, so here’s a chance to grab a super cheap ticket, get yourself elevated and entertained, and help change the world while you’re at it.

Ashley for the Arts • Friday, Aug. 9, 3:30-11pm, and Saturday, Aug. 10, 10am-11pm • Memorial Park, 551 Memorial Park Drive, Arcadia • $5 • ashleyforthearts.com