The 2012 Akron Arts Expo is drawing thousands to West Akron's Hardesty Park this weekend.

The free annual event is expected to draw some 25,000 people this year.

In addition to over 160 art vendors offering paintings, photography, glass, jewelry and other artistic works, there's live entertainment as well.

Susan Haines came to the Arts Expo to shop for art with her husband, and to just have a fun, weekend day.  They're looking for both the artistic and the practical.

"Well, I kind of like these dancing praying mantises over here, those are pretty cool," Haines tells AkronNewsNow.com. "I'm looking for a piece of art for our new bathroom wall...I have to just wait and find something that looks right."

Dan McCann from Columbus makes ceramics, designer light switch plates and more. He's no stranger to the Akron Arts Expo.

"I've exhibited at the show probably 10 years or more. I love coming back here, the people really support it, the community comes out for it, and it's really just a great event."

The 169 artists can't just show up. They have to present their work to a jury, which is why the expo calls them "juried artists". That process started earlier this year.

"They submit their artwork, and a panel looks it to accept them into the show," City of Akron community event coordinator Brittany Schmoekel explains. "This is a fine art and crafts show, so we have certain specifications. All the artists must make their own work."

A number of musicians and dancers are entertaining crowds at the Arts Expo, and the Akron Symphony Orchestra will have a live performance on Sunday night.

Food of all types, from vendors to the "Hardesty Street Cafe", is available.

There's a special emphasis on children this year.

"This year, we have a new addition to our children's tent called 'Whimsy Boutique', which offers shopping just for kids," says Schmoekel. "We've got some great children's entertainment and performing arts entertainment for something new."

And a silent auction bidding on donated artwork and other items takes place once per hour.

A free parking shuttle takes you from parking at Firestone High School and at the Akron Radio Center on West Market Street, about three blocks from Hardesty Park.

Rubber City Radio Group, including 1590 WAKR, 97.5 WONE, 94.9 WQMX and AkronNewsNow.com, is a sponsor of the Akron Arts Expo.