New Bern is known for many things, including its amazing art scene. This April, you have the opportunity to experience a number of special events showcasing incredible talent, with the First Annual Arts in April, a month-long celebration. While there is an extensive lineup, here are three standouts.
Arty Party #1 – Plein Fun
Each weekend in April, Plein Air artists will draw or paint beautiful landscapes of Tryon Palace and Gardens. Plein Air is a format where artists leave the studio behind and paint what is in front of them outside. You will also get a glimpse of what is in store for the Third Annual North Carolina Plein Air Art Festival, being held in New Bern in May. To learn more about Plein Air, click here.
You never know what treasures you may find at ArtWalk.
Arty Party #2 – Walk It Out
The second Friday of the month can only mean one thing: ArtWalk! On April 14, downtown is the place to be for family or date night fun. I love this monthly opportunity to get outside, enjoy the cool evening air, peruse the stores and art galleries, and of course, enjoy some fantastic food at one of several downtown restaurants. For details, click here.
Arty Party #3 – A Little Night (and Day) Music
The art festivities continue throughout the weekend of April 14 – 16. The First Annual Arts in April Music Festival kicks off on Friday with some fantastic acts all over downtown, many of them free! On Friday and Saturday evenings and Sunday afternoon, featured artists will perform concerts at New Bern Civic Theatre. For information and tickets, click here.
There are so many additional events and activities happening throughout the month, including the annual Garden Lover’s Weekend at Tryon Palace; Earth Day celebrations; and a Community Art Open House on April 29 and 30. As for the other eleven months of the year, you will also discover wonderful showings, galleries and festivals celebrating the arts. You might say New Bern “bears” a lot for art!