The crowds are out in full force for July Fest.

The annual event kicked off earlier today in Downtown Binghamton.

As Action News Reporter Julianne Sweeney tells us, this year's festival has something for everyone.

"Look at the weather, listen to the music, smell the food, look at the crowds." said Ron Sall, Downtown Binghamton Business Association President.

July Fest crowds take over Downtown Binghamton.

Vendors are lined up and down Court Street.

"It brings out the heartbeat of Binghamton, it really does. It shows people that, this town is...we're vibrant, we're alive." said Bill Teegarden of Kirkwood.

This is the 47th annual July Fest.

It's sponsored by the Downtown Binghamton Business Association.

"It keep getting bigger and bigger each year, and I like that." said Mary Mares of Binghamton.

"It has free entertainment, it has the food that you can love, arts and crafts." said Ron Scales of handlebarpottery.com.

"The music, and the people and it's just a lot of fun." said
Jeanne Osenbaugh of Stillwater Studio.

Live, free music happens on the center stage.

People can find food served up by local eateries.

And, area artists have work on display.

"It's a fantastic opportunity for local artists to show their, to show what they can do." said Scales.

There's face and body painting for the kids.

Organizers invited these vendors to attract the whole family.

"The vendors are smiling, smiling, smiling...things for kids all over, it's just great." said Sall.

These people say they're happy to see Binghamton filled with fun.

"This is like our own, once a year, our own festival." said Osenbaugh.

July Fest continues Saturday.

Another day for a summer tradition to live on.

Tomorrow July Fest will celebrate Pirohi Day.

And, the Hog Rally will roll through Downtown.

There's also the Parlor City 5K Run that begins at 9:00 am.