Baton Rouge’s spring art festival, "Hot Art, Cool Nights," is back on Friday.
Artists, makers and musicians will gather from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. in spots throughout Mid City for the annual event sponsored by Mid City Merchants. The festival area starts at the intersection of Jefferson Highway and Goodwood Boulevard and continues down Government Street to the intersection of Government and 14th streets. It is free and open to the public.
“I’ve been a part of Hot Art, Cool Nights and Mid City Merchants for decades. I’m so excited the festival is happening again this year, showcasing some of the best local talent, artisans and business that Mid City has to offer," said Liz Walker, Elizabethan Gallery owner and event founder. "Mid City Merchants is excited to connect with the community through HACN as we work toward our goal to keep the public familiar with Mid City Merchants and its contributions to the Mid City area, the Baton Rouge metropolitan area and beyond."
Festivalgoers can expect art, live music, food vendors, shopping, meet-and-greets with local artists and unique local businesses.
If you're a first-time attendee, Amber Harrell, president of Mid City Merchants, offered these tips for maximizing your event experience:
- Plan your route: Check out the event map in advance to familiarize yourself with the layout and participating venues. This will help you make the most of your time and ensure you don't miss anything. Don't forget about parking.
- Wear comfortable footwear: Expect to do some walking between different venues, so wear comfortable shoes to keep your feet happy throughout the evening.
- Dress accordingly: Check the weather to determine the best attire, keeping in mind that most of the event is outdoors.
- Bring cash and cards: While some vendors may accept card payments, it's always handy to have some cash on hand, especially for smaller purchases or if there are any vendors that only accept cash.
- Stay hydrated: Bring a water bottle to stay hydrated, especially if it's a warm evening. Or be sure to stop into businesses often to grab a drink.
- Arrive early: To beat the crowds and have more time to explore, consider arriving early. This will also give you the opportunity to chat with artists and vendors before they get too busy.
- Engage with the artists: Don't be afraid to strike up conversations with the artists showcasing their work. They'll likely appreciate your interest and may even offer insights into their creative process.
- Be open to discoveries: One of the best parts of events like these is stumbling upon unexpected treasures. Keep an open mind as you explore, and you might just discover your new favorite artist or piece of artwork.
- Support local businesses: Take the opportunity to support local artists and businesses by purchasing their work or products. Your support can make a real difference to them and helps to foster a vibrant creative community.
- Have fun and enjoy the experience: Above all, relax and enjoy yourself. Bring friends, take in the sights, sounds and experiences of the event, and make memories that will last long after the evening is over.