4th fridayAs tempting as it might sound to hibernate behind closed doors after a long week, don’t make that mistake. June 24 is 4th Friday, which coincides with Fayetteville after 5. That means, in addition to art exhibits and activities downtown, there is a concert, too. And, it’s free! What’s not to love?

If you missed the Art’s Council’s opening of the Public Works exhibit, now is the perfect time to check it out. What makes this exhibit so refreshing is that all of the artists are local, and no submission was declined. Anyone with an inkling of creativity and the gumption to submit a piece has a place on the walls of the Arts Council Gallery. Don’t take that to mean the work is subpar. The Public Works exhibit features pieces worthy of any professional gallery — along with an inspiring selection by local youth and hobbyists. More than the pieces themselves, this exhibit is a peek at the artistic spirit that inhabits this community and that deserves a look. For more information about the Arts Council and the 4th Friday exhibit, visit www.theartscouncil.com.

Art isn’t just for grown-ups. In fact, the smallest among us are often the ones with the most creative outlooks and active imaginations. Fascinate-U Children’s Museum taps into that on a regular basis, but on 4th Friday’s, the activities are free. From 7-9 p.m., Fascinate-U invites families to enjoy an evening filled with kid-centered activities celebrating art and culture. Bubbles, hula hoops and sidewalk chalk await. Throw in a little imagination and some outdoor space and it has the makings of a perfect fun-filled summer evening.

Most people equate libraries with books, and the local libraries do have them. But that’s just a fraction of what the Cumberland County Public Library and Information Center system offers. This 4th Friday, come meet some of the areas local authors — in person. Talk to them. Ask questions. Make a connection. Readers, writers and anyone who loves a good story will find something here. It’s at Headquarters Library from 7-9 p.m. at 300 Maiden Lane.

Local artist co-op, Cape Fear Studios opens its Annual National 2-D art exhibit on June 24. Artists from across the country compete for space on the walls of the main gallery. If art is about perspective, there is plenty here. Come see just how much perspective fits into just two dimensions. Visit www.capefearstudios.com for more information.

Right next door to Cape Fear Studios is another gold mine. The Fayetteville Area Transportation and Local History Museum is brimming with artifacts and information about local history. The exhibits changed out this year, so chances are even local die-hard historians will find something they’ve not seen before. Call 433-1457 for details.

Like a cold drink on a scorching day, a summer Friday night just begs for music on the lawn as the sun sinks in the sky. 20 Ride, a Zac Brown tribute band, headlines Fayetteville after Five in Festival Park. Gates open around 5:30 p.m., and the music starts around 7 p.m. Shake off the worries of last week and take a turn dancing on the promenade. There will be food vendors and beverages for sale. Bring your family, your friends, your neighbors (and maybe a blanket to sit on) and ease into the weekend.