By Asia Nail
The Truth Reporter
If Toledo had a “most colorful weekend of the year,” it would definitely be the Crosby Festival of the Arts. Picture this: a two-day whirlwind of art, music, family fun, and food so good it’ll make your taste buds do the cha-cha. And the best part? All of it supports something even more beautiful—helping neighborhoods grow, learn, and thrive through the power of gardening.
Yep, we said gardening.
Now in its 59th year, the Crosby Festival isn’t just about pretty paintings and glass sculptures. It’s the biggest fundraiser for Toledo GROWS, which helps people across Lucas County grow their own food, connect with neighbors, and learn how to live healthier lives through the magic of sowing seeds.
“This isn’t just an art show,” said Yvonne Dubielak, executive director of Toledo GROWS.
“It’s a community festival. And at Toledo GROWS, community is our middle name.”
From Farm Fields to City Streets
Yvonne isn’t new to growing things—she actually grew up on a farm! After 23 years as a teacher and school principal, she traded chalkboards for garden beds and now runs the whole blooming show at Toledo GROWS.
Since 2017, she’s been helping the organization expand programs, raise money, and get more people involved in gardening green spaces.
“Gardening can seem intimidating,” Yvonne said, “but we’re here to remove barriers. Whether it’s seeds, supplies, or just showing someone how to take the first step—we’ve got you.”
Toledo GROWS doesn’t just plant tomatoes. They plant hope, leadership and confidence—especially in neighborhoods where fresh food is hard to come by.
Let’s Talk Festival Fun
Sarah Ryley, powerhouse development manager, has been the driving force behind this year’s glow-up—think fairy godmother meets festival planner. Thanks to her and the team, the 2025 Crosby Festival is seriously next-level.
They listened to artists, took notes from guests, and turned feedback into fresh, exciting upgrades. “It’s not the same festival you’ve been to in past years,” Sarah said, buzzing with excitement.
The featured artists are the real deal—visionaries, makers, and creative spirits who bring everything from hand-blown glass to fiber art, jewelry, wood, ceramics, painting, photography, and more. Each one has been handpicked through a blind jury process, meaning a panel of experts selected based solely on craftsmanship and creativity—no names, no favorites, just pure talent.
This year, artists from 18 states are bringing their finest work to Toledo, offering a stunning mix of innovation, tradition, and one-of-a-kind pieces. Whether you’re shopping for a new statement piece or just want to see what imagination looks like in real life, this artist lineup delivers.
Here’s the scoop:
- 2 days—Saturday and Sunday— jam-packed with fun.
- There’s art, music, games, locally owned food trucks (yes, delicious!), and activities for everyone.
- And for the kiddos? There’s a magical place called the Secret Forest. But shhh… let them find it like a garden treasure hunt.
Food, Family, and One Really Resilient Food Truck
One of the stories that really warmed our hearts was about a beloved vendor, the Jikoni food truck, known for its mouth-watering East African cuisine. His entire food truck was stolen in January of this year, but the Toledo community rallied—raised nearly $20,000—and now he’s back, better than ever.
Yvonne beamed, “People were literally asking months ago, ‘Is Jikoni going to be there?’ And we’re thrilled to say YES!”
Why It Matters More Than Ever
Toledo GROWS started back in 1995 with the simple idea that people could work together to clean up their neighborhoods, grow their own food, and reconnect with each other.
Fast-forward to now, and they support more than 125 community gardens across the city.
“During the pandemic, we saw just how much people need community,” Yvonne shared. “Once we couldn’t gather, we realized what we were missing. People need a reason to come together again—and gardening gives us that.”
Now, people volunteer every week, learn how to grow vegetables, and share their harvests with neighbors, churches, and schools. And get this—Toledo GROWS gives away thousands of seedlings every spring, and collects feedback from each garden so they know exactly how they’re making an impact.
“We even ask kids after a field trip, ‘What’s one thing you learned today?’” Sarah said. “And the answers are so fun—everything from ‘tomatoes grow on vines’ to ‘I like worms now.’”
A Festival with a Purpose
Yes, the festival is a good time. Yes, it’s beautiful and fun and full of creativity. But it’s also a way to keep the important work of Toledo GROWS thriving.
“Every ticket sold helps us grow more gardens, teach more kids, and give more people the tools they need to grow their own food,” Sarah explained.
So when you’re sipping lemonade, buying local art, or dancing to live music at the Crosby Festival, just know—you’re part of something way bigger. You’re helping Toledo bloom.
Quick Tips Before You Go:
- Get your tickets early at com
- Only $12 in advance for adults, and kids under 12 are free with an adult.
- Date: June 28-29 at Toledo Botanical Gardens.
- Take the free shuttle from Meijer—parking limited!
- Bring the whole family—kids will love the games, crafts, and exploring.
- Support local artists and vendors—they travel far and work hard to be there!
- Leave room for food—trust us, you’ll want seconds.
Whether you’ve been every year or it’s your first time, this is the summer weekend to circle on your calendar. Come for the art, stay for the joy, and head home with your heart—and maybe a flower pot—full.
Grow with purpose. Learn more at toledogrows.org