This is my favorite way to pass the first Friday of every month, and bonus points because it's right around the corner from my home.
This little pop up craft market features free (yes, free) craft beer samples from local breweries like Bangin' Banjo Brewery and 26 Degree Brewery. There's also food vendors (kettle corn, german sausage, etc.) There are an array of craft booths - last time we saw local artists, crafty ethically-sourced taxidermists, potters, and iron sculptors. They have live artist demonstrations and the BACA galleries open right around the corner, featuring even more art on the first and second floors.
I love grabbing a few beer samples and settling in at one of the chairs or benches to watch the live band. Styles differ, but typically they feature some funky alternative stuff. There are always people dancing.
Technically family friendly, since there are often kids dancing and stuff, but I don't feel smothered (as a child-free person) by a kid-like atmosphere. The art and activities are geared towards adults. No fun houses or clowns or anything like that.
The secret's out on this place - last time we went we had to drive around for several minutes to find parking, and the beer ran out shortly after we arrived. Go early and beat the crowds! (Or better yet...maybe go a bit later, after I have a chance to get there, grab some beers, and find a lawn chair.) =-P read more