Tents of art, performances by local musicians and an array of homemade apple pies will transform Rochester Park into an artistic festival as Paint Creek Center for the Arts hosts the 47th annual Art and Apples Festival Sept. 7 to 9.

Starting out as one tent and a few Rochester area artists, the fine art fair has grown to over 290 participants displaying and selling their work.

Photographer and Rochester Hills resident James Parker, who sells his work in many art shows, is attending Art and Apples for his sixth year in a row and considers it a fall tradition.

“I like Art and Apples because it’s nice to sell close to home and support the local community,” Parker said. “It’s had a long history as one of the better shows in Michigan, with a lot of great artists participating. The best part, though, is the pie.”

Apples have always played a part in the festival. Cider and donuts from Romeo’s Westview Orchard, as well as an apple pie and dessert contest give the festival a fall feel.

Oakland University will play a big part in the festival this year, according to Ellen Hughes, Marketing Director of Paint Creek Center of the Arts.

WXOU will broadcast live on Saturday and Sunday, while the OU Vitality Dance team will perform both new and old dance routines.

“We decided to participate in Art and Apples because it’s a great way to get involved in the community,” said Ashley Allsion, junior and OU Vitality dancer. “There are a lot of other organizations from OU that will be attending also so it is a great way to have a good OU presence at the festival. We all love to perform and are glad to have the opportunity.”

WXOU will make their first appearance at the festival this year.

“This is WXOUs first year being a part of the festival and we couldn’t be more excited, said WXOU station manager Sean Varicalli.  “We will be there Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m to 2 p.m. by the acoustic stage. We expect a great turnout and we’re just really excited to be at such a well established event.”

For more information on the festival or to volunteer visit www.artandapples.com.