Locals flock to the monthly Art Walk in downtown Pomona.
Galleries are open to the public and artists transform
the streets and sidewalks into canvas for colorful works
of art.
When people ask for a penny in exchange for my thoughts,
I’d rather try to work a deal and get that coin
for free.
I can’t help but agree with Notorious B.I.G. when
he rapped “mo’ money, mo’ problems.”
From tipping based strictly on service to collecting
precious quarters left in vending machines, I am a passionate
advocate of cash conservation.
Living a fun lifestyle with less green can be a challenging
task for beginners, but luckily I am a self-proclaimed
economical expert. There is no reason to sacrifice thrills
for thriftiness when it’s possible to have both.
Be my BFF and discover my favorite spots for budget friendly
fun. It ain’t easy being greenless, but it’s
possible.
While big cities like Los Angeles and Long Beach host
their own large-scale art walk events, Pomona’s
monthly street soirée brings all the art for half
the gas. Located less than five miles from Cal Poly in
Pomona’s Arts Colony, the Second Saturday Art Walk
provides an inexpensive self-expression outlet.
With cool cuisine and eye candy to fulfill every craving,
the walk should be a staple in anyone’s artistic
diet. Sprawling across a few blocks south of Pomona’s
antique row with plenty of free parking, almost every
medium of art is represented.
Chalk murals provide a literal interpretation of an art
walk, with brightly sketched designs at the tip of one’s
toes.
Student artists also surround sidewalks, holding up their
creations for comments or critiques. The artist line provides
a unique opportunity to interact with the faces behind
the art.
Roomy galleries lining the blocks from Second Street
to Mission Avenue stand wide open for pedestrians to filter
through. Arrive early to take advantage of complimentary
cheese, crackers and other snacks.
After enjoying free finger food as appetizers, stroll
down to Casa Jimenez on Third Street for authentic Mexican
cuisine.. The family-style restaurant offers options from
a $9.95 endless buffet to $6.95 combination plates.
After taking one bite of a crispy, light golden flauta,
I knew Jimenez’s casa was one I’d revisit
often. The portions are large, the service is friendly
and the tortilla chips are continuously refilled.
The art walk also offers a farmer’s market, street
vendors and live music. Retail shops and other restaurants
stay open later in order to take advantage of the moving
masses.
Stop by La Bomba, an eclectic vintage clothing boutique
with plenty of inexpensive retro finds. Women can sift
through racks of 50’s frocks while men may discover
classic staples of the past, such as Member’s Only
jackets for $10 or less.
Walk a few steps down to pass through the Magic Door,
a charming used bookshop with an impressive selection.
Energetic owners Dwain and JoAnn Kaiser create a cozy
atmosphere and treat each customer like an old friend.
The pair uses their literary expertise to recommend specific
titles based on a customer’s preferences.
From signed CDs in every genre to limited edition publications,
it isn’t difficult to unearth a gem. With books
starting at $2 and all paperbacks 50 percent off their
original price, Magic Door opens endless possibilities.
Popular concert venues the Glass House and the newly
renovated Fox Theater ensures that catching live music
is no stress for the cash-strapped. If paying for entertainment
isn’t an option, take a detour upstairs to the train
station tower for a picturesque view of Pomona’s
city lights.
Pomona’s next art walk is Saturday, April 5 from
6 to 10 p.m.
Reach Annette Vitkievicz at: lifestyle@thepolypost.com
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