The first weekend in May brings lots of fun and activity to Racine County. You’ll find outdoor music and shopping, a chance to learn about antiques and get to take part in a community tradition. Come along with Real Racine.
A First of May. The First of May is also First Friday from 6 to 9 p.m. in Downtown Racine. Enjoy live, outdoor music at three locations – RAR performs at Monument Square, Acoustic Horizon is at Crosswalk Park on Main Street and Sipos & Young plays at Paul Harris Plaza on Sixth Street. More than 40 local businesses will be open with shopping, food and drink specials all evening. Carriage rides will be available at Monument Square. Details at www.firstfridaysracine.com
Learn some history. Have you ever wondered about that ancient vase on your mantel or your late aunt’s favorite piece of jewelry? The Absolutely Waterford Antiques Appraisal Fair is your opportunity to more about your keepsakes from expert appraisers. The event runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Waterford Union High School, 100 Field Drive. General admission is $5. An appraisal from one of the experts is $10 per item. You can also attend any of three demonstrations on upcycling or preserving vintage photos for $10. For tickets and details, contact Absolutely Waterford at 262-523-9000 or visit www.absolutelywaterford.org
A local favorite. Thousands of flapjacks, tons of breakfast sausage, gallons of coffee, milk and juice plus continuous entertainment. It’s the annual Kiwanis Pancake Day served from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday at Festival Hall, 5 Fifth St. This Racine tradition helps support many youth and family-oriented programs. Tickets are $6 in advance and $7 at the door. Kids ages 5 and younger eat free.
Right next door. After you’ve enjoyed your pancakes on Saturday, stop by the Annual Lakefront Artist Fair just outside at Festival Park. This first local art fair of the season features the work of more than 100 area artists, silent auction, raffle and live music. The fair, sponsored by Racine Montessori School, runs from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Free admission.
Run for fun. The iCare Local Color Fun Run is 9 a.m. Saturday at Whitford Park, 625 N. River Road, Waterford. In addition to family exercise, the event includes community drug education and support. The fee, including a T-shirt, is $15 and $10 for students. Visit www.icare-local.org
New art. The 2015 Black & White Invitational Show opens Saturday at Spectrum School and Gallery, 610 21st St. This exhibit of black and white (and shades of gray) includes photography and other art pieces. It runs through May 31. Spectrum is open 12 to 5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. Free. www.spectrumschoolandgallery.com
They’re off! Put on your best hat and take in The Kentucky Derby Gala from 4 to 9 p.m. Saturday at the Johnson Building, 555 Main St. This is a fund-raiser for Wheaton Franciscan Healthcare – All Saints Foundation and the Cancer Center at All Saints. Tickets are $125 per person. Call 262-687-8654 or visit http://derby2015.myab.co
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