34th Southwest Arts Festival kicks off in Indio

The 34th annual Southwest Arts Festival kicks off today at the Empire Polo Club in Indio, bringing with it four days of live music, plus pottery, glass and fine art paintings slated for display.

From today until Sunday, 250 artists from around the world will be showing their work.

The festival includes traditional, contemporary and abstract fine works of art, according to organizers, along with a variety of crafted goods.

Travel Magazine previously recognized the Southwest Arts Festival as one of the ``Top 100 Events in North America.''

The festival doubles as a fundraiser for several Coachella Valley-based nonprofits and is the result of a mass volunteer effort of more than 200 people.

A $15 general admission ticket is good for all four days. Tickets for seniors are $13. Doors open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Empire Polo Club, 81-800 Avenue 51.

For more information or to purchase a ticket, visit www.SWArtFest.com, or call festival organizers at 760-347-0676.