Baton Rouge's spring arts festival, “Hot Art, Cool Night,'' returns Friday.
Artists, makers and musicians will gather at spots throughout Mid City for the annual event hosted by Mid City Merchants from 6 to 10 p.m. The festival area begins at the intersection of Jefferson Highway and Goodwood Boulevard and continues down Government Street to the intersection of Government Street and His 14th Street. It's free and open to the public.
“I have attended Hot Art, Cool Nights, and Mid City Merchants for decades. I am thrilled that the festival, which showcases the best local talent, artisans, and businesses that Mid-City has to offer, will return this year. We are very excited about this,” said Elizabethan Gallery owner and event founder Liz Walker. Through HACN, we look forward to connecting with the community with the goal of continuing to educate the public about Mid-City Merchant and its contributions to the Mid-City region, the Baton Rouge metropolitan area, and beyond. . ”
Festival-goers can expect art, live music, food vendors, shopping, and interaction with local artists and unique local businesses.
For first-time attendees, Amber Harrell, president of Mid City Merchants, offered the following tips to maximize your event experience.
- Plan your route: Check the event map in advance to understand the layout and participating venues. This will help you make the most of your time and make sure you don't miss anything. Don't forget the parking lot.
- Wear comfortable shoes: You'll likely be walking between different venues, so wear comfortable shoes to keep your feet comfortable throughout the evening.
- Dress for the situation: Keep in mind that most events will be held outdoors, so check the weather to determine the best attire.
- Bring cash and card: Some vendors accept card payments, but it's a good idea to have some cash on hand, especially for small purchases or if some vendors only accept cash. Convenient.
- Stay hydrated: Bring a water bottle to stay hydrated, especially on warm nights. Or, make sure to stop by your business often for a drink.
- Arrive early: To beat the crowds and have more time to explore, consider arriving early. This also gives you a chance to chat with artists and vendors before they get too busy.
- Interact with artists: Don't be afraid to strike up a conversation with the artists whose work is being featured. Perhaps they will appreciate your interest and may offer some insight into their creative process.
- Embrace discovery: One of the best parts of events like this is finding unexpected treasures. If you explore with an open mind, you might discover a new favorite artist or piece of art.
- Support Local Businesses: Take the opportunity to support local artists and businesses by purchasing their work and products. Your support will make a difference to them and help foster a vibrant creative community.
- Have fun and enjoy the experience. Most of all, relax and enjoy. Bring your friends and soak up the sights, sounds and experiences of the event and create memories that will last long after the night is over.