Enjoy the arts in Cape

Whether you have been in town for weeks, or years, chances are you've heard of First Fridays with the Arts. The event began in 2003 when the Arts Council of Southeast Missouri moved to its current location, deep in the heart of Old Town Cape.

Now, 10 years later, the event has grown to include each of the galleries throughout Cape Girardeau. Every first Friday of the month, these galleries host an Art Walk. During this time, each gallery stays open for later hours (5 to 9 p.m.), and many provide refreshments. Some galleries, like the Arts Council, feature new exhibits each month. Others change their displays as often as they are able. Many galleries even feature live entertainment to coincide with its first Friday opening.

Given the popularity of the event, some downtown businesses take advantage of the extra foot traffic, and stay open for later hours as well. These events change every month, so if you're interested in knowing who will participate you'll have to check the schedule monthly.

A great way to keep in the know is to sign up for the Arts Council of Southeast Missouri newsletter on our homepage at www.capearts.org. This newsletter goes out weekly and informs readers about cultural and arts-related events in the region, including a full rundown of first Friday happenings. For a complete listing of the galleries that participate in First Friday with the Arts, stop by the Arts Council of Southeast Missouri for a brochure, or visit the website.

MURIELLE GAITHER, executive director, Arts Council of Southeast Missouri, Cape Girardeau