Imagine strolling down the quaint tree-laden streets of historic downtown Armstrong. Now picture musicians playing along those tree-lined streets and artists showing and talking about their latest colourful drawn, painted or sculpted creations.
Then top it off with local chefs, farmers, and food-related businesses serving up freshly-made tapas and local vintners, distillers and breweries providing the libation to wash it all down with.
That’s only a tease of what to expect at the second annual The Taste of Art in Armstrong Saturday, June 6.
The event is a walking tour of downtown Armstrong that is a fundraiser for SPARC (Armstrong Spallumcheen Arts Council) and AFIS (Armstrong Food Initiative Society).
With 30 businesses along with more than 20 artists and 10 musicians participating, organizers are expecting to see double the attendance from last year.
“The event attracted visitors from throughout the Thompson-Okanagan last year, many of whom are returning since it is a unique way of supporting local arts, agriculture and food, and shopping locally,” said Natalie Garbay, a director with SPARC and one of the organizers of the event. “Many new businesses have opened up in Armstrong since last year, and this is a great opportunity for them to promote themselves.”
Of the businesses participating, each will be paired with either a musician, an artist, a local chef, food or beverage provider, or a combination of these.
“During the event, everyone will get to talk with the artists and musicians, explore the wonderful shops our community has to offer, and sample locally grown and prepared food, and taste alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages from our region,” said Garbay, adding that Summerhill Winery, Larch Hills Winery, Okanagan Spirits, Crannog Ales are just some of the businesses coming to provide the beverages.
Participants and visitors will be able to stroll along both sides of Pleasant Valley Boulevard, as well as along Okanagan Street to Patterson Avenue, and Pleasant Valley Road to Bridge Street to take in all the sights, sounds, and tastes.
“The north side (only) of Pleasant Valley Boulevard will be closed to vehicular traffic from Mill Street to Okanagan Street,” said Garbay, adding, “The Taste is through ticket sales, but is an economic boost to the businesses. So many people had no idea of the kinds of shops we had here in Armstrong – it was great exposure for all. The artists and musicians also benefit as they are able to sell their creations at the event as well.”
The Taste of Art in Armstrong takes place Saturday, June 6 from 4 to 8 p.m. Tickets can still be purchased online today at Eventbrite.ca, and then they will be available at the door only on Saturday for $25 each.
