This Free, Friday Event in Portsmouth, New Hampshire is a Fun Party Filled With Art, Food, and Drinks

Homemade soups in crockpots, platters of food from various restaurants, and plenty of wine, beer, and cocktails are all part of Art 'Round Town in downtown Portsmouth, New Hampshire.

This party is year-round on the first Friday of every month, even in the winter, says gallery owner Elaine Miller.

"Just follow the brightly lit lanterns hanging outside of participating galleries and come on in.  We're all about being casual and having fun."

 

Yup, those glowing, yellow lanterns quaintly lead the way to each gallery in downtown Portsmouth.

Elaine runs Ceres Gallery, and she's so passionate about these casual, entertaining, family and pet-friendly art walks. That's right, even well-behaved pets are welcome to stop by for water and a treat.

Although Art 'Round Town is technically from 5-8 pm, Elaine says that closing time isn't set in stone.

"We've stayed open until 11 some Fridays.  Eating, drinking, meeting people, listening to music in the galleries.  So yes, many galleries stay past 8 if the owners and artists don't have to get home."

About 8 to 12 galleries are involved at any given time.  Most are along the lantern-lit walk through downtown Portsmouth.  There is a map so that you can drive to those galleries off the beaten path, maybe a mile or so away from the downtown cluster.

Elaine adds that this is your chance to chat with local and regional artists, grab a bite and drink, and join the party without feeling intimidated.  She agrees that art can be that way, and wants Art 'Round Town to dispel that.

"We're welcoming, just like walking into a friend's home, no pressure, just fun.  It's a party.  Throw on your jeans and stop by."

For all the information you need, click here. Most info goes up a couple of days before that first Friday of the month.