Arts in Nature Festival

Are they tree-huggers? Granola eaters? Flower children? No, the more than 100 artists performing in this weekend’s Arts in Nature Festival are more like the elves of J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth. Like the pointy-eared creations of Tolkien’s pen, wandering musicians at the art and music fest (beginning Saturday) will fill the forest air with tunes while dance troupes frolic among the trees. Think that as a Seattleite you’re already pretty green? Well, these folks are more at-one-with-nature than Legolas (so earth-savvy he could track orcs with his head to the ground). But unlike the wood-dwelling warriors of the Lord of the Rings, the fire performers and other artists at West (Seattle) Earth will be quite hospitable: Hands-on activities for guests will include an interactive museum of sound, plus instrument, print, and mask-making instruction. Camp Long, 5200 35th Ave. S.W., www.naturec.org. $5 suggested admission. 11 a.m.–6 p.m. JOSHUA LYNCH
Sat., Aug. 23, 11 a.m.; Sun., Aug. 24, 11 a.m., 2008