Monmouth arts festival set for April

The 38th annualMonmouth Festival of the Arts, New Jersey's largest art invitational, will take place fromApril 5-9 at the Monmouth Reform Temple, 332 Hance Ave., Tinton Falls.

The event will begin with the artists gala reception at 7:30 p.m. April 5 - an opportunity to meet the artists, enjoy a catered cocktail party and browse the various works in all media by more than 200 artists.

Visitors to the Saturday night gala will also receive a ticket to attend all other festival activities, including artist demonstrations, children's performances, workshops and educational symposiums from Sunday through Wednesday. The cost for the gala is $50 in advance and $55 at the door, and may be reserved by calling (732) 747-8278 or (732) 747-9365.

Michael P. Murray of Highlands is returning as the show's designer.

Pre-arranged group tours led by artists or trained docents can be pre-arranged for Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday, and are available for schools (with adult supervision), seniors or other groups.

On Sunday, parents can browse the galleries while their children enjoy a special children's program. Throughout the Festival, Le Petit Café will provide fare to hungry patrons.

For a complete schedule of events and times, call (732) 747-8278, visit the Web site www.monmouthfestivalofthearts.com, or e-mail festival@monmouth.com. Daily admission to all events is $8 for adults, and $5 for seniors (65 and over) and students (through high school). Series tickets (Sunday through Wednesday) are $18.