If you’re a local and didn’t get a chance to go and visit one of the biggest events that is sure to be a catalyst for the growth and culture of Jacksonville, then go next Saturday.  To think that on any given Saturday between April and December I’ll always have a chance to go to something where I know I’ll enjoy myself, and have somewhere to take an out of town guest to and have them say, “This is so great, I’m jealous that you can do this every weekend,” certainly has me very optimistic about the future of downtown Jacksonville.  Even if this event is on the outer edge of downtown.

The crowd was amazing on Saturday, at the inaugural weekend of the Riverside Arts Market, much larger than expected with estimates coming in over 40,000.  It will be interesting to see what numbers will sustain during the rest of the year, but I wouldn’t be surprised to see an average of at least 15,000 +.  There was a little something for everyone: escape artists, belly dancing, black beans and rice,  organic produce, oh yeah and art.  Was there some things that reminded me of a crafts fair?  Sure, but there was so much other great art there and at reasonable prices that it didn’t bother me at all, and I think I’m speaking for quite a few when I say that.

What would we like to see RAM explore for the future?  We’d really like to the farmers and nurseries represent.  More produce!  I wonder what the logistics would be of carrying the market across Riverside Avenue and capture the space under the bridge on that side as well.  Maybe make that part the farmer’s market.  Of course that would mean closing off that section of Riverside Blvd, but I don’t think that would be too entirely troublesome.  Of course, I don’t even know if that land is available for use.  I’d also like to see beer and wine available for the adult masses.  Not sure how they are handling the logistics of rotating the vendors, but hopefully they have something in place to make sure it remains fresh and there’s something new each weekend, we need repeats customers!

It really was a great event and all involved deserves a huge thank you from the community and a congratulations because the first ever RAM was a huge success.

ps. The bike valet parking provided by BikeJax was awesome and those guys deserve a shout out.  Hopefully the soreness is starting to wear off.