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Arts & Entertainment

Great Escape: Nazareth Center for the Arts

A one-stop shop for those locals looking for a little culture.

When you’re feeling a bit itchy for something new, for something beyond your usual haunts and eateries, I want you to find Route 191 and head north. North past Josh Early Candy (suggested detour: pick up a few handmade treats for the drive), north past the growing shopping complex near Wegmans and past the Italian cement plant. 

Once you hit Main Street, turn right. The town that lies before you is often compared to Mayberry. A place where neighbors still know neighbors and shopkeepers close up when the sun sets.

Nazareth, PA.

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In this quaint little borough, you’ll find many options for whiling away the day. California rolls at Hana Sushi. A walk through the borough park – picnic on the grassy knoll near the amphitheatre recommended. A tour of Martin Guitars or window shopping at Nazareth Furniture, which sells some of the swankest wares in the area.

Then there’s one venue that’s just starting to pulse on the radar. The Nazareth Center for the Arts. Founded in December of 2009, this cozy center has become a one-stop shop for those locals looking for a little culture.

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Visual artists get a chance to display and sell their latest masterpieces in the main gallery. Currently, you’ll find the works of Italian native Raffaele DePamphilis, whose paintings depict everything from the Tuscan countryside to the charms of Bucks County.

Meanwhile, fledgling painters can take classes on still life, watercolor and mixed media techniques, among other disciplines.

More into music? Attend one of the center’s many open mic nights or head over on a Friday or Saturday, when the area’s talent gives intimate concerts in the center’s gallery space. For a $10 suggested donation, you’ll enjoy light refreshments – cheese, crackers and sweets – and, the best part, it’s BYOB.

This weekend, check out singer/songwriter Elisha Kane, joined by Kyle “Boog” Simmons, on Friday night, and/or rocker Jordan White on Saturday. Both shows start at 8 p.m.

And true to Nazareth form, strangers will leave as friends. Just pull up a chair, strike up a conversation and enjoy.

Where: Nazareth Center for the Arts, 30 Belvidere St., Nazareth.

Escape begins: Check calendar for hours and events.

Cost: Free but donations suggested and appreciated

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