JOHNSONBURG — The Johnsonburg Community Trust (JCT) announced a two-day Arts & Heritage Festival, celebrating Johnsonburg’s culture and history, will coincide this year with the Johnsonburg Chamber of Commerce’s Alumni & Friends Weekend.

The 21st Annual Arts & Heritage Festival, celebrating Johnsonburg’s history, heritage and downtown atmosphere, will expand to two days and take place during the Alumni & Friends Event Weekend July 11-12. An announcement regarding the trust’s historic 1890s Armstrong Brick Block (BB) building’s future, vital for downtown revitalization, will be a part of the event.

“The Johnsonburg Community Trust (JCT) is thrilled to announce significant updates regarding the historic 1890s Armstrong Brick Block, JCT President Stephanie Distler said. “This incredible building is a true landmark in our town and the region. The first outdoor mall in the U.S., the Armstrong Brick Block has seen so much of our town’s history, and now, its story is taking a super exciting turn.

“The JCT and volunteers have been working hard, driven by a passion for preserving our heritage and building a vibrant future,” she added. “We can’t wait to show you what we’ve been up to, introduce you to the friends we have made and unveil plans that will not only bring this iconic structure back to life but also create a lasting legacy for everyone.”

July 11’s activities, set for 4 to 11 p.m., will kick off on Market Street, in the center of the Commercial Historic District with more than 2,000 visitors expected. There will be exhibits and displays in the Heritage Education and Welcome Center at the BB, live music by Dagus Dan from 4 to 7 p.m. and headliner Darkwater Duo from 7 to 10 p.m., and Zambelli fireworks sponsored by Johnsonburg Borough and Domtar beginning at 9:30.

Food trucks, local business specials and many other activities are scheduled.

July 12 the festival will run from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. JB Unplugged is on tap from noon to 3 o’clock, along with more artisans, food trucks, local business specials, exhibits, displays and other activities.

Participating food vendors include Anytime, Lunchtime; Honkie’s Food Trailer; Brandy Camp Creamery; Pizza Napoli; Back Alley BBQ; and Barbara’s Donuts. Some artists, artisans and heritage vendors include Rivertown Woodgrain, DRW Designs, 1 of A Kind Gourds, Fair Weather Trading Co., Rustic Wolves, Jack Northrop Woodturning, Elk Co. Wilds Wine & Shine, True North Collected and many more.

Lyndsey Niegowski, environmental education specialist from the Bureau of State Parks within the Department of Conservation & Natural Resources (DCNR), will present a session celebrating the vital role of national parks. Niegowski will be available 4 to 8 p.m. July 11 or, in case of inclement weather, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. July 12.

For more information about this year’s event, or to become a vendor, visit johnsonburgcommunitytrust.org.

A nonprofit organization, JCT is dedicated to revitalizing the downtown area by fostering a vibrant and interconnected community, officials said.

“Our goal is to create a welcoming and inclusive space for all residents through sustainable economic growth, meaningful connections and the celebration of our unique local heritage,” Distler said. “Support from the public has enabled the JCT to continue to provide services and events in our community and to help it thrive and keep people in the area. All proceeds will go toward supporting our community and restoration/revitalization efforts.”