Tomato Art Fest 2009

Photo: Anthony Scarlati

Ushering in the season of the tomato was the sixth annual Tomato Art Fest in East Nashville’s Five Points. A New Orleans-style Second Line parade kicked off a hot August day with city blocks filled with people in red fashion, tomatoes adorned with decorations, and plenty of vendors displaying one-of-a-kind art, crafts and jewelry. It was an eclectic display of neighborhood camaraderie and everything tomato. What began six years ago as a small art exhibit to celebrate the best part of summer—the tomato—drew in an estimated 20,000 visitors this year.

Founded by neighborhood artists Meg and Bret MacFadyen, the festival has grown to include tomato-inspired competitions and exhibits accompanied by three stages of live music and a colorful art display at the MacFadyens’ own Art & Invention Gallery.

Aside from paying homage to the herbaceous plant, the festival highlights an active and friendly neighborhood. “It’s about the community and people coming together,” says Meg. Bret is quick to add, “The tomato is a uniter, not a divider, bringing together all fruits and vegetables.” Only in Nashville!