Artists were up early to display their artwork. A hot air balloon is being tethered by the lake. Little Joe’s is cooking up a storm with new food choices. Now the only thing the Citizens Bank and Trust 42nd Annual Lake Wales Art Show needs is a large crowd. Thousands are expected to attend the weekend show from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. today and Sunday with free admission and free public parking located on North Lakeshore Blvd. Also new this year, artist demos and talks, entertainment, enhanced children’s activities and a grand prize that includes a free hot balloon air flight for two donated by Balloons and Beyond with an overnight stay and breakfast at Chalet Suzanne Restaurant and Country Inn. The winner will be announced at 2 p.m.

There are 95 artists who will compete for $22,500 in cash awards. There are eight categories of artwork: clay; drawing, graphics and digital; jewelry; mixed media and fiber; oil and acrylic; watercolor and pastel; photography; and sculpture, wood and glass. The variety of media, subject matter and style will offer price points for every level of collector.