First Fridays Starts This Week in the ‘Burg

This Friday the Arts Council of the Valley kicks off its annual First Fridays in the ‘Burg. And despite having a brand new director whose still getting her feet wet (Welcome Celia!), this year’s lineup appears to have more variety and plenty of appeal. More about that later.

In addition to movies and music, some of the downtown merchants are getting involved, and the council is teaming up with Harrisonburg Downtown Renaissance to offer historic walking tours.

This Friday, in conjunction with First Fridays and to kick of their 6-year anniversary, You Made It! Pottery Studio is offering wheel-throwing demonstrations in front of the store from 5-7 p.m. According to co-owner David Miller, the studio has opened a new wheel-throwing room, where you can take lessons, or practice your own throwing. And at a good price, I may add. Practice for one hour costs only $8. I have a feeling the pottery room is going to be very busy.

Dave says later this month they are also opening a new glass warming room. Design your own jewelry, bowls, etc. and they will fire them on site in their new glass kiln. And several summer camps for kids are planned at the studio, featuring work in clay and glass. One week camps are $175 and held Monday through Friday from 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Sounds like a fun place to be. If you’ve never experienced  You Made It!, here’s a nifty video to give you a visual taste of their offerings.