Uptown Lexington prepares for inaugural arts fest Saturday, May 13th

Uptown Lexington executive director Travis Stewart. { Antionette Kerr/Davidson Local}

Art is alive and welcoming in Uptown Lexington. From shimmy shaking belly dancers to food trucks, sweet trucks, a bounce house, live music, fire trucks, sidewalk chalk contest, aerialist performances, magicians, games and more.

Uptown Lexington executive director Travis Stewart said they are proud to present the Inaugural Uptown Arts Festival on Saturday, May 13 from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. in Uptown Lexington. There will be over 40 art vendors selling their one-of-a-kind art. The event is FREE to the public.

Shimmy Mob belly dancing will shake it up for a worthy cause. The “Mob” supports victims of abuse, and the shelters and similar organizations in participating local areas, by promoting awareness and furthering the cause. Local Team Leader Joylyn Howell for Shimmy Mob, Team Lexington, NC, USA said the group will offer an inspirational performance. 

"As a victim and survivor of childhood and domestic abuse, this charity event is extremely important to me," said Howell.

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Organizers like sketch artist Kenrick Jobe expects that the first Uptown Arts Festival will have something for everyone. "It's something Lexington will be proud of," Jobe offered. "Lexington is becoming a place that welcomes artists." Jobe will be sketching live during the event. 

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Stewart expressed thanks to Lexington Utilities and Friends of Uptown for supporting the festival and he hopes it will grow each year. Uptown Lexington, located at the southern tip of the Piedmont Triad, is the largest collection of independently-owned businesses in Davidson County with a rich heritage in cultural celebrations, furniture, art and entertainment. According to Stewart, "Uptown Lexington is fostering the next generation of innovative entrepreneurs and artisans.”