2008 Asheville Visitor Guide - Any Way You Like It - (Page 9) to your arts content The area is crawling with creativity, thanks to the thousands of artists who live in the region. Around downtown, it’s not difficult to fill your appetite for the arts, no matter if you’ve got a hankering for a gallery stroll or a night at the theater. From classical to contemporary, the amazing breadth of downtown galleries (more than 30 of them) is irresistible to both fine-art connoisseurs and casual shoppers. Wander in and out of the galleries and chat with artists during Friday evening art walks, held from April to October. ask the mayor Diverse, eclectic, vibrant – all words that describe downtown Asheville. Here, the action never stops. You can browse the unusual blend of shops, hear a variety of music, admire striking architecture or feast on a freshly prepared meal. “Unlike most cities, there’s always something happening in downtown Asheville,” Mayor Terry Bellamy says. “The Bele Chere Festival in July has local vendors, performers, a children’s play area and lots of food. The Goombay Festival in August celebrates African and Caribbean culture, and the Greek Festival in October – talk about wonderful food.” Speaking of food, eating downtown is an experience not to be missed. Restaurants of nearly every ethnicity line the streets, and many have outdoor tables, putting diners in the heart of the action. “You can get great French toast at the Mediterranean Restaurant and for lunch, I like the Ritz’s fish, collards, fried okra and pinto beans,” Bellamy says. “And Zambra is so good if you like tapas.” doing downtown What makes Asheville’s downtown scene such a standout? Maybe the question should be: What doesn’t? From the Art Deco buildings and high-energy street scene to the decidedly European flair, it’s safe to say this is not your average metropolis. Unique boutiques and music stores on “Lower Lex” (where Walnut and Lexington intersect) contribute to the city’s distinctive vibe, which permeates the hearts and minds of anyone who meanders downtown. Draw inspiration from local art on the Asheville Urban Trail, a 1.7-mile walking tour of downtown, or checkmate your opponent in an outdoor game of chess on Haywood Street. Expect the unexpected. After all, this is Asheville. mayor terry bellamy Upon her inauguration, she became the youngest mayor in North Carolina, the youngest mayor ever elected in Asheville and the first AfricanAmerican to serve as mayor in Asheville. FOR MORE exploreasheville.com airasheville.org exploreasheville.com 9 http://www.exploreasheville.com/what-to-do/the-arts/index.aspx http://www.exploreasheville.com/what-to-do/discover-downtown/index.aspx http://exploreasheville.com http://airasheville.org http://exploreasheville.com
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