If you’re always looking for things to do in downtown Murphy, NC, put the Murphy Art Walk at the top of your list. In fact, put these free “fun for the whole family” evenings on your calendar right now. From May through October, folks from Cherokee County – and visitors from everywhere – gather in Murphy on the first Friday of the month from 5 to 8 p.m. During the season, some of the Art Walks have special themes, such as a spring Student Art Show and a July Patriotic Celebration. You might even find a Scavenger Hunt, where visitors scour local shops for clues that help them win a prize. In October, Fall decorations set the tone for the evening.
The Art Walk is sponsored by the Valley River Arts Guild, so art is definitely the focus. For starters, Murphy’s downtown galleries will give visitors a warm welcome. The Valley River Arts Gallery, Gallery 26, Celebrate Life Gallery, and Highlander Gallery may even showcase a special collection or two. Some of the participating artists will also be on hand.
Naturally, local merchants also want to be part of the action. When you stroll into a business displaying a yellow Art Walk flag, you might see an artist demonstrating his or her craft for everyone to see. Jewelry artisans, painters, calligraphers, weavers – you never know who you’ll meet at an Art Walk. Chances are, they’ll even have some artwork for sale. If you see something you like, consider treating yourself to a gift. Or, pick up a special birthday or Christmas present.
While you stroll the downtown streets of Murphy NC, keep an eye (and ear) out for the live performances. First, check out the four downtown squares, as they’re popular spots for musicians and bands. You might also find entertainment inside a merchant’s shop or restaurant. Check out Shoebootie’s, The Daily Grind, The Chophouse, and PNC Bank for starters.
If your family includes some members of the younger set, Art Walks often feature fun children’s activities. Look for face painting, balloon artists, and magicians. Kids might even get up-close-and-personal with an artist while she’s creating a colorful piece of work.
Of course, every special event needs some delicious food – and Murphy, NC Art Walk merchants certainly pull out all the stops. As you browse the downtown streets, poke your head into each yellow-flagged shop or restaurant and snag a tasty snack or two. While each establishment will offer something different, you won’t be disappointed! According to the inside scoop, Shoebootie’s and The Cherokee County Visitors’ Center always offer a scrumptious spread!
Finally, let’s remember the idea behind the Art Walk. We all want to support our local merchants, so they can continue to provide great hometown shopping and dining. That’s what helps to make Cherokee County a wonderful place to live.
The Poltrock Team – REMAX Mountain Properties – Murphy NC – www.MyMurphy.com – Call us Toll Free at 1-866-Murphy-NC or 1-866-687-7496 – Murphy’s #1 Real Estate Team