Spring time is just around the corner and in Mariposa that means wildflowers, butterflies and the Mariposa Butterfly Festival. The Butterfly Festival Committee invites artists and handcrafters to apply for the art and artisan show that is the anchor of the festival.

This year's dates are Saturday, May 1 and Sunday, May 2. The booth spaces fill the Art Park and along the Creek Parkway behind Fifth Street. Most booth spaces are 10 by 10 at a cost of $50. The show is open to all artisans who do their own work. No imports or commercial items are allowed. This is a juried show, based on workmanship and originality. There are categories of artisan/vendor products with limited numbers in each category.

The Butterfly Festival is advertised throughout California and thousands come to shop the art and artisan show, see the parade, quilt and car show, the skate park competitions, the chalk art and enjoy the music and food. The highlight of the festival are the butterfly releases which take place throughout the weekend near Mariposa Creek.

Applications can be picked up at the chamber of commerce office or the Company Store in downtown Mariposa. They are also available at www.Mariposabutterflyfestival. org, by emailing butterflyfestival@sti.net or calling Robbie at 742-6624. The application deadline is March 15.