Arts Arcata! Busking everywhere. Arts and Music Behind the Redwood Curtain

As the the sun falls behind the trees, The plaza comes alive. The art is hung everywhere. There are wonderful smells in the air, from fresh baked goods to the pungent smell of garlic and Italian spices.  Merchants set out trays of cheese, crackers, fresh vegetables, and small delights for customers. Non profits set up tables full of local wines for donation.

At 6 pm the streets fill with community and for a few hours a overwhelming sense of joy falls on the city and its people. Worries are forgotten, connections are made and friendships are renewed.  The cultural event is one of the highlights of humboldt life. A social event where people of all ages, beliefs, politics, and classes come together to enjoy the moment.

On any other day, The city can enforce its ordinance against drumming and street performances but this night all is forgiven and music is welcome and invited by local merchants.  Musicians scramble to find a corner, a doorway, or a retail shop where they can play. Each setting out a open guitar case or hat hoping to entertain the crowd and for a dollar here and there.

Veterans for peace and the women in black protest the war, standing on their corner. arms distance from one another facing Bank of America and the local bakery in silence. Edna lou,rolls into town, she is a old 1960's School bus converted into a mobile tea house. Her owner quickly sets up shop, heating a hot pot of water. Tea is free and there's no catch other than there are no to go cups. Visitors crowd around,  and with a warm smile, He lovingly offers steaming hot mugs of herbal tea to anyone regardless of class. The hot beverage warms the hands, taking the edge off the cold. Holding no expectations, asking nothing in return except, enjoy the tea and return the mug. Recipients of this simple gesture slowly sip their tea and chat, exchanging a few words of kindness.

It is touching to see community members compassionately engage each other passing hugs and small talk as they wander the street, checking out the food, art and music, while grabbing a little nosh here and there. It is the one night in Arcata where on a communal level, it seems all is forgiven between rivals. Lovers hold hands and passions ignite the very air we breathe with wondrous possibilities and sweet hope. God I love Arcata, This is my home and these are my people. We have very strong opinions when it comes to economics, politics and our rights, It is good to know that culture can bring us together and heal any slights at least one night a month, rain or shine. Arcata is a beautiful place to live with small town values and a big heart. I will live here till my last breath. It is home.