Decatur Celebrates Music and Art at the West Ponce Music Stroll
Decatur, Georgia was alive with music, colors, and creativity as the annual West Ponce Music Stroll unfolded on Saturday, November 16, 2024. The event which had to be rescheduled from its original September date due to unpredictable weather, transformed the patios and parking lots of West Ponce businesses into stages of joy and artistic expressions.
Live Music Galore
Music filled the air, with local talents and bands serenading attendees with a variety of tunes. Some notable performances included Michael K who captivated the crowd at the Mellow Mushroom, while The Morgan Rowe Band played soulful tracks at The Marlay House, setting the perfect backdrop for a day of community bonding.
A sweet surprise for many was the performance by the teen trio cover band, Tripp’n, who brought down the house at Farm Burger. Amelia Williams, Tripp Wilkinson, and Bennett Reed put on a stellar show that left the audience asking for more.
Community Artistic Expressions
Music wasn’t the only thing showcasing talent; colorful and lively chalk art adorned the sidewalks. From little Mila producing cute designs alongside her mom and friend, to professional artist Nicole LeBlanc, who debuted her intricate work titled “Music of Nature,” the chalk art section was buzzing with creative energy.
Among the chalk artists was Delta Tango Mike, who impressed everyone with his mesmerizing “Azteca Moderno” street piece. Other local artists like Natalie Enzmann, who was spotted with hands covered in chalk dust, contributed to the collective artistic flair.
Makers Market and Fun Activities
The Stroll wasn’t just about music and art, it also served as a delightful meet-up point for the community with the Makers Market in full swing. Enthusiasts explored an array of artisanal creations and hand-crafted products. Sam Stewart, owner of Decatur Screen Print and singer for the local band Maxwell Street, was one of many vendors showcasing their wares, engaging friends and strangers alike with lively conversation and stories of their crafts.
The child in everyone surfaced as kids and adults participated in family-friendly activities, including a community chalk area where many took turns crafting their masterpieces or simply doodling on the ground. Scout Head, only one year old, was seen dancing to the tunes from The Morgan Rowe Band, capturing the heartwarming family atmosphere of the event.
Electric Connections by Decatur Makers
This year, the Decatur Makers, a community of individuals who love to build and create, made their appearance with an engaging demonstration. They brought technical enthusiasm to the Stroll, allowing attendees a hands-on experience with circuits. Nicole Blackwell, Maureen Haley, and executive director Kalia Morrison were on site, flipping the switch and demonstrating some cool, electrical feats that sparked a lot of interest.
Conclusion
The West Ponce Music Stroll was a day where music, art, and community spirit came together in perfect harmony, offering a delightful escape for all who attended. With smiles, laughter, and applause echoing through Decatur, the success of the event bore testament to the city’s lively culture and love for creativity.
Whether you were captivated by live performances, marveled at chalk masterpieces, or simply enjoyed browsing through handmade crafts, the Stroll had something for everyone. Here’s to another year’s commemorations filled with merriment and unity, as Decatur continues to shine in its vibrancy and community spirit.
