Coinciding with the Tuscon, AZ's internationally famous Gem and Mineral Show, the 9th Annual Gem & Jam Festival maintained its highest level yet of positive and creative vibes over the course of its 3 days in action.

One part Burning Man and one part Lightning in a Bottle mixed with a carnival-esque atmosphere, hundreds of like-minded individuals displayed unbridled expressions of creativity, from visual art to dance to performance art. For the first time in its 9 solid years, Gem & Jam sold out its first Saturday night ever – thanks in part to its killer lineup featuring music from the likes of Emancipator Ensemble, Papadosio, Giraffage and Phutureprimitive, and artistic prowess from the inimitable Alex and Allyson Grey.

If the festival photos above, all by Earle Sidelle, don't whet your appetite for the approaching festival season, we don't know what will.