If weather forecasts can be believed, it looks like Mother Nature is about to smile upon Dundalk's 46th Art Show in Veterans Park on Saturday.

The art exhibit and fun festival, sponsored by the Dundalk-Patapsco Neck Historical Society, Dundalk-Eastfield Recreation Council and new partner Dundalk Renaissance Corp., will open at 11 a.m. with formal opening ceremonies beginning at 12 noon.

While 23 artists will display a variety of artwork, including fine art and photography, organizers are disappointed in the lowest registration in recent years.

The weekend includes many regional events and even the national spectacle of Preakness, which undoubtedly provided stiff competition for the local event.

"Artists can still register," historical society President Jean Walker said Thursday. "They can come and register on Saturday — we'll take them."

Art show sponsors are hoping to give the event more of a festive look and feel this year — an idea born of necessity.

In past years, artists have displayed their works on A-frames provided by the Baltimore County Department of Recreation and Parks.

Aging and broken frames have not been replaced, leaving organizers unsure how many will be available this year.

Artists are encouraged to bring their own displays, canopies and tables to dress up the outdoor event in downtown historic Dundalk.

Among the artists registered are a retired steelworker and students from six local schools, in addition to professional, nonprofessional and senior artists, Walker said.

New entertainment additions this year will add to the festive atmosphere organizers hope to achieve.

Thanks to the added sponsorship from the Dundalk Renaissance Corp., the art show will include a performance by the Black Cherry Puppet Theatre, a puppet making workshop, face painting will be available throughout the day and Bubbles the Clown will roam the grounds.

Saturday's weather forecast includes predictions of mostly sunny conditions and temperatures near 80 degrees.

Should that not pan out, the rain date in May 20.

Event Details

What: 46th Dundalk Art Show, featuring the work of 23 entrants.

When: Saturday, May 19

Time: Show opens at 11 a.m. Opening ceremonies will be held at 12 noon. Awards for the judged art show will be announced around 3:45 p.m.

Other activities:

1 p.m.  Black Cherry Puppet Theatre production of "Bill Goats Gruff'kin"

1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Puppet Making Workshop

Throughout the day: Face painting and the antics of Bubbles the Clown

3:45 Announcement of winners and presentation of awards

Info/To register as an artist: Dundalk-Patapsco Neck Historical Society, 410-284-2331