Supporting the Arts: SoDu Blues and Heritage Festival, Handmade Market, First Friday
The Triangle is extremely lucky to have a plethora of creatives – from musicians to artists to filmmakers to designers. Talent abounds in this area and this weekend is a great chance to support many different local artists.
SoDu Blues and Heritage Festival
SoDu stands for South Durham and this Saturday May 3 the Greenwood Commons Shopping Center off Highway 55 will be the landing place of a festival celebrating one genre of musical heritage in the south – the Blues. A tribute and fundraiser for local legend John Dee Holeman, admission is $10 per Individual, $15 per family and Food Bank donations are suggested. That entry fee is a steal considering the multiple talented musicians playing at the event and the many fun activities planned – face painting, booths featuring artisanal goods, and great food from vendors such as Papa Mojo’s Roadhouse! The event is from 1-6pm and more info can be found on the Facebook page.
Handmade Market
Now in its 7th year, the Handmade Market is a highly-anticipated semiannual event taking place this Saturday, May 3, from 11 – 5pm, with special early bird shopping from 10 – 11am. The event features a juried selection of the best artists, designers, and crafters from NC and beyond – with over 40 different booths to shop from. More information on the artists involved, the awesome sweets available from people such as Sweet T Cakery and Monster Cookies, and directions / parking for the event can be found on their website.
First Friday
The City of Raleigh’s monthly event focused on creativity and arts within the city center rolls around again this Friday May 2nd, with many of the local galleries staying open late and restaurants often running dinner and drink specials. A great chance to talk one-on-one with an artist, shop original pieces that support the creative community, and enjoy a glass of wine or two, most places are open from 6-9pm. The First Friday website has a collection of many of the art studios, but just look for the light blue First Friday flag for locations participating in the festivities.