Town toasts festivals

Laguna’s trio of summer art festivals opened their seasons, each according to their own style.

The Art-A-Fair’s new Venetian Carnival theme lent a cheerful, lively air to its grounds, where festival-goers listened to Latin grooves and opera while sipping Tivoli Too’s award-winning margaritas. New artists were welcomed, and veterans said they felt a sensation of renewal.

The Sawdust Art Festival lived up to its “Up Close and Personal” theme at its June 26 preview; by the time the doors officially opened, the invitation-only event was so crowded its exhibitors didn’t have a choice but to be very up close — and very personal.

It was a good thing the layout was reworked slightly for a more spacious feel.

And the Festival of Arts boisterously celebrated its “Young at Heart” theme in honor of its 75th anniversary June 30. Attendees danced to live music on the grounds, while artists filled wine glasses as quickly as they put red dots next to sold works.