Art Dates and Chili Plates

First Friday is here! Downtown Tuscaloosa’s Art Walk is a night full of art, music, and more. This is a great opportunity to check out all of the galleries and shows Tuscaloosa has to offer. All of the galleries are within walking distance of each other, so it is a great experience for a local night out.

Start your morning off by taking your kids to the Children’s Hands-On Museum for ‘Be My Valentine’ starting at 9 a.m. Here kids will explore Valentine’s Day through science, technology, engineering, art and math projects, and challenges. The kids can also get a head start on creating their Valentine’s Day cards!

The Great Tuscaloosa Chili Cookoff is happening this weekend at Bryant Conference Center at 10:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. Take part in sampling over 30 chili recipes and cast your vote for your favorite, to help determine a winner. This event also features live entertainment, children’s activities and free ice-cream, chili dogs, and cheese biscuits. This event costs $10 for adults, and children under 6 are free. Exchange Club of Tuscaloosa will donate all funds to several projects, including Youth Development, the Exchange Club’s work in child abuse prevention, and community service.

If you want to kick start your Valentine’s Day, World Market has a ‘Sweets & Treats’ event from noon until 5 p.m. This free event allows you to sample chocolates, berries, candies, and bubblies. Plus, World Market is sharing a unique dessert recipe that everyone will love. Pick out your favorites and be all set for Valentine’s with your significant other or Galentine’s with your friends.

Elevation of Art is going to be at the third annual Tuscaloosa Heritage Festival. Embrace the diverse cultural heritage of Tuscaloosa through art exhibitions at this free event. This festival will take place at the McDonald Hughes Center from 3 p.m. until 6 p.m.

The ninth Annual Interactive Family Night at the museum will be at the Natural History Museum in Smith and Lloyd Hall on the University’s campus. Family Night is free from 5 p.m. until 8 p.m. Don’t miss out on interactive activities as well as door prizes and free food.

If you are looking for live music, cap your Saturday night off at Druid City Brewing.  ‘When Particles Collide’ will be performing starting at 8 p.m. ‘When Particles Collide’ is a must-see band starring a jazz drummer and choral vocalist that tour all over the U.S. and Canada.

Don’t forget the Farmers Market at Tuscaloosa River Market takes place every Saturday from 7 a.m. until noon all year!

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