By Lisa Capitelli

Managing Editor

(April 8, 2021) Berlin’s first 2nd Friday celebration of the year kicks off at 5 p.m. tomorrow, with a new vibe for 2021.
“It used to be called ‘2nd Friday Art Stroll,’ with artists featured in the shops. This year we’ve added more live music,” said Ivy Wells, Economic & Community Development director for the Town of Berlin. “We wanted to create a new atmosphere for 2nd Fridays in Berlin, focusing on live performances, juried artists and more things for kids.”
Last month, the Berlin Arts and Entertainment District Commission put out a survey, and more than 50 percent who responded said they wanted more live music and activities for children.
During 2nd Fridays in Berlin, there will be live music on the streets as well as inside a few businesses.
In addition, Seaside Dance Academy members will perform at 6 p.m. on Commerce Street this Friday.
About a dozen artists will be set up on Jefferson Street and in several of the shops. The artists on Jefferson Street submitted their work to be juried and were selected to participate in the event.
The Berlin Welcome Center will offer a grab-and-go paper plate flower art project for children.
The new Berlin Mermaid Museum will be open during 2nd Friday as well.
“It’s a legit mermaid museum with artifacts from all over the world,” Wells said.
At Beach Memories, owner Michele Krempa will demonstrate how she makes glass beads for jewelry from 6-7 p.m.
Many of the businesses will stay open late for the event, held from 5-8 p.m. For more information and to view the music lineup, visit 2nd Fridays in Berlin event page on Facebook.
Visitors are encouraged to practice social distancing and to wear a mask.
“It will be a beautiful Friday night in the town of Berlin,” Wells said. “Enjoy the fresh air, live music, artists and get something to eat. Lots of restaurants have to-go options.”
Wells said tables and chairs will be set up throughout town for people to sit down and eat if they choose to grab a snack from one of the restaurants.
Jefferson Street will be closed to traffic from 4-9 p.m. Commerce Street will be closed to traffic from 6-9 p.m.
Artists interested in participating in upcoming 2nd Fridays in Berlin should email a description of their work along with some photos to iwells@berlinmd.gov.