Just got back from my studio where  the excitement out on the street pulled me from my palette to go check it out. Actually, I knew what it was and had been looking at my watch after about every tenth stroke of paint to make sure I was one of the first buyers at Cameron Farms' booth during the Palisade Famers' Market.  After my purchases of homegrown fruits, veggies and flowers I couldn't help but stay to chat, with friends,  soak in the sun and tap my toes to the great folksy/rock band that was playing. 

It was then that I was reminded AGAIN of how entertaining farmers' markets really are. Between Thursday evenings' Farmers Market on Main Street downtown, the Fruita Farmers' Market every Saturday at the Fruita Civic Center and The Palisade Farmers' Market every Sunday on 3rd Street in Palisade, there really is no excuse to miss out on fresh produce, upbeat music and more. And, if that isn't enough, the people watching alone provides great entertainment.  It's always a festive atmosphere from one end of the valley to the other!

Now, for what's coming up this week.  There's plenty to choose from and a lot of it doesn't cost a cent!  I can't wait. 

A must see on my list is First Friday, you guessed it... on Friday. However, this month it's on the second Friday because of the Fourth of July holiday weekend.  A wonderful variety of original art, friendly folk and good food await at numerous Grand Junction galleries and The Art Center.  I'm going to do a preview of the shows tomorrow  and I'll give you the skinny .

As far as music goes, there are three concerts coming up that sound awesome - and the venues couldn't be better.  On Saturday evening there are two concerts to choose from.  Guess I'll have to flip a coin! 

If you're in the mood for some swingin' old time bluegrass favorites, bring a chair, some munchies and beverages and set up "camp" on the grass in front of the Botanical Gardens Amphitheater next to the rolling Colorado River.  The entry fee is nothing and the entertainment is huge. Little girls dance on their daddys' feet, couples snuggle and sing along and groups of friends laugh, dance and soak in the cool evening air.  I always walk away from these concerts feeling good about pretty much everything in life.  The music starts at 7:30.  Oh yeah, be sure to bring bug spray.  Those pesky mosquitoes want to party too!

The next two concerts are both at Grande River Vineyards.  Friday night brings a touch of salsa to Palisade with the band Quemando.  I've not heard them before, but I think I might have to go experience it as the Grande River Vineyard concerts are always a winner. Naomi and Steve Smith, owners of the vineyard, definately know how to throw a great event with tastey food and their popular wines available for sale.  Just bring your chair and sit out on the grass next to the grapevines.  Good wine, good music, good friends, good atmosphere.  What could be better? Tickets are just $20 at the door.

In case you want a venue encore, Grand River Vineyards hosts another concert the next day(Sunday, July 12) at 4 p.m.  This time it's a Don Henly Tribute with The Boys of Summer. If "All You Want To Do Is Dance" you better head to the vineyard in a "New York Minute."  Okay - corney, I know, but I couldn't resist.  Again, just $20 gives you a fabulous time with great tunes and tastey wine. Just be sure to bring your chair. Oh, and bug spray is probably a good idea too.

Enjoy your week!  And, if you have any questions or want info. about the arts in GJ, just e-mail me.  I'll do my best to help you out.