Hundreds of art lovers converged on Manitou Springs over Labor Day weekend to celebrate an institution that goes back more than half a century.

The 52nd annual Commonwheel Art Festival, held in Memorial Park, hosted about 90 art vendors including painters, potters, jewelry makers, photographers and other creators from Colorado and across the country.

In keeping with a decades-long tradition, the artists apply for a spot at the festival and are selected by a Commonwheel jury. Event co-organizer Amberly Brown noted that the festival is not a craft fair, nor is it a venue for hobbyists.

“When we select the artists, it’s important that we have a large variety of art, and we want to make sure it’s quality art,” Brown said. “These are artists. They are serious about it, and for most of these people, it’s what they do for a living.”

Touted as the premier outdoor art show in the Pikes Peak region, the festival featured something for everyone, including a kids’ art activity booth where children made “leaf rubbings” and a “big bubble play area” provided by the Millibo Art Theatre.

“We’ve been offering this for more than 20 years,” said Millibo co-founder Jim Jackson. “We think it’s a great addition to the festival. It’s popular with kids of all ages.”

On Sunday, artist Eric Hodges returned to the festival after a 35-year absence.

“I just thought it was time to come back,” said Hodges, who lives and works in Durango. “It’s a great festival. It’s outdoors, so you’re not cooped up in some space, and Manitou is a great town. I’m glad I came back.”

The artists were a diverse group of longtime vendors and relative newcomers, Brown said.

“Some people come here to see a specific artist,” she said. “They are longtime clients who are hoping to see something fresh and new from an artist whose work they know well.”

Considered one of the top small-town art scenes in the U.S., Manitou Springs boasts more than a dozen galleries and a citizenry with a discerning eye for quality art. That’s another reason why the jury process is so selective, Brown said.

“People love art, and it’s one of the things Manitou is known for,” she said. “That’s why people travel here from all over the state. It’s a Colorado legacy.”

Jewelry maker Steve Tooke, a longtime Manitou resident, said he is already working on securing a spot for next year’s festival.

“This is such a great event,” Tooke said. “We’ve got people who used to come here as kids, and now they bring their own kids. We’ve got new Air Force Academy cadets here with their parents, looking sharp in their uniforms. I’m already looking forward to next year.”