Erie's Boutique Nights: A Love Letter to Art and Culture

EDDC

The block of Fifth and State will be lined with artists and musicians during the Erie Downtown Development Corporation's Boutique Nights, happening on the second Friday of each month through the summer.

FRIDAY, AUG. 11

Downtown Erie will light up during the summer season's Boutique Nights, every second Friday of the month through September. Since June, Boutique Nights have been engaging the Erie community with live music, food, shopping, art demonstrations, and more in an appealing open air setting. Sponsored by the Erie Downtown Development Cooperation (EDDC), these creativity-filled summer evenings are meant to inspire the community with local art and culture.

Glass Growers Gallery has worked to bring recognition to local Erie creatives and during Boutique Nights, the block of Fifth and State is lined with artists from the area demonstrating their live multi-media art processes. All of the artwork being demonstrated during the event will be for sale within the Glass Growers tent. After being inspired by the talent on display, attendees are invited to participate in a free, interactive paint-by-numbers activity on the sidewalk near the Shops at 5th and State.

In addition to the live art demonstrations, the Shops at 5th and State (including She Vintage, Primo Tailoring, The Dollhouse at Pointe Foure, and City Supply) open their doors. Everyone is welcome to pop into the unique stores between the artist's tents for a bit of shopping. In the spirit of artistic appreciation, the stores have built displays and shopping experiences around inspired themes. According to the owner of The Dollhouse at Pointe Foure Emily George, "The Dollhouse at Pointe Foure's inspiration for Boutique Nights came from San Jose Del Cabos and Naples Art Walks." The Boutique Nights are truly meant to blend creative fields, like fashion and art, to create a sense of energy that flourishes along the streets of Downtown Erie.

Delicious fare is also available at the many established food hubs in the area such as Rita's, The Flagship City Food Hall, Bricks American Steakhouse, and Flagship City Public Market. Grab a bite to-go and listen to the live musicians who will be playing on the steps of the Erie Art Museum throughout the evening.

The upcoming Boutique Night on Aug. 11 will also include the State Street Car Show where classic car lovers can spot their favorite hot rods in downtown Erie. There are two more Boutique Nights to attend this summer, so make a plan to experience the art and culture of Downtown Erie. 

5 to 9 p.m, Aug. 11 and Sept. 8 // The Shops at 5th and State, 431 State St. // Free // For more info: flagshipcitydistrict.com

Erie artists who would like to be involved in Boutique Night should reach out to emily@glassgrowersgallery.com to register