Wanting something a little different from the traditional dinner, dancing and champagne toast to the New Year (by "different" I really mean "cheaper."), I headed to a spot local to me, as someone who happens to live South of the Sunshine Skyway.
The Rawk Shop in Village of the Arts, Bradenton, sells vintage and retro clothing, music and other fun merchandise. A primary handout for the Bradentucky Bombers, it's also known for its 1st Friday music fests, where the patio doors are open for live bands, karaoke and local DJs.
New Year's Eve featured a special night with punk bands Lesson Learned and Spankin' Fresh. Visitors to the Rawk brought home made snacks to share, and it was BYOB. You could sit outside and listen to the band, or hang out in the shop with artists, musicians and other creative types who happened to hear about the party on MySpace or through word of mouth.
I don't know whether it was the blue moon, an overabundance of champagne and beer, or just par for the course among artistic types; but within two hours I got to witness a vintage fashion show by a Bomber showing off her knew cherry patterned dress and bathing suit, along with an Elvis impersonation from a fellow friends and Face Booker. I got a hug from a local intuitive body worker, who cracked my back in the spot that always get stuck (saving me an expensive trip to the chiro), and somehow ended up explaining to someone that a strong handshake resembles a high grip when shooting at the range. Odd, yes. But entertaining? No question.
Perhaps the nicest thing about the village people (yuck, yuck) is their inclusiveness. A "come as you are" kind of place, feel free to be you, and be welcomed for it.
No comments:
Post a Comment