Second Saturday Festivities

What a lovely evening! Kudos to all who contributed to the Second Saturday Music and downtown events. I am looking forward to a summer of Second Saturday enjoyment. It was such fun to see the charming horse and carriage clip-clopping its way through the downtown area. Rides were just $5 per person, kids under ten were free.

Many downtown businesses were open late, and I stopped by the Balloon Closet where there were beautiful Mother’s Day balloon bouquets on display. I also stopped by “Oh So Pretty.” The shop was gorgeous, as always, and Joni Peterson, the owner, pointed out some new merchandise. There was a beautiful line of jewelry by Elizabeth Jane, a JBU student. Joni said the line has been very popular, and I can see why- the pieces are special and unique. She also showed me some brightly colored hand-painted bracelets, Tokyo Milk perfumes, and several new inspirational books. The Cafe on Broadway was hopping, and people were visiting other participating businesses as well- Books on Broadway, Jolly Roger Sweet Shoppe, the Baby Habit, Broadway Flowers, II Gals Junk, Local Flair, and Amandromeda. There was even face painting sponsored by the Baby Habit. It was quite an event!

At 7:30, the amazing folk music began at the Sager Creek Arts Center. Usually the Second Saturday music event takes place in the Twin Springs Gazebo, but they wisely moved it indoors after all the rain we’ve had. The concert opened with some lively tunes by Bill & Deanna Lisk, the organizers, and their musical friends. Feet were tapping, hands were clapping… you just can’t sit still during great folk and bluegrass music!


The headliners, Shout Lulu Stringband, performed next, and they were a real treat. Apparently, they often perform at the Fayetteville Farmer’s Market, and it would be worth the drive over to see them. I was enchanted by their obvious love of old-time music. They even looked the part, with Skye wearing a lovely white dress that seemed straight out of the 1920’s. The men also wore vintage-inspired clothing and charming hats. I just love attention to detail.

The music was fabulous! I’m not very knowledgeable about this kind of music, but they performed with such joy that you couldn’t help but be swept up in the magic of it all. They played “Little Moses” by the Carter Family, and also a few songs by a 1920’s group, Pope’s Arkansas Mountaineers, among other tunes. Seth can play two harmonicas at once, and Pete plays a variety of instruments, including bones from a horse! Trust me, you won't want to miss the next Second Saturday music and downtown festivities on June 13th.