Carrboro Creates

A weekend itinerary for the artist and musician

“Art enables us to find ourselves and lose ourselves at the same time.” (Thomas Merton)

Feeling inspired to explore beauty and unleash your creativity? Then Carrboro is the place for you. Take advantage of Carrboro’s original art and live music scene. Visit the many galleries, lose yourself at the fall festivals and many music venues, and take some classes, too. 


*This itinerary is based on normal business operations when we are not in a global pandemic. Check out “Carrboro Cares” – our suggested weekend itinerary for the Covid-conscious traveler!  

Friday

Learn the art of jewelry-making, silversmithing, or enameling at James Carter Studio

World renowned goldsmith, designer, and artist, James Carter, will amaze you with his ability to create one-of-a-kind gold and silver jewelry. Learn from the best and develop a love for this craft at James Carter Studio.

Soothe your senses and blend your own custom fragrance at The Fragrance Shop

Carrboro encourages creativity and individuality, so why should your scent be any different? Build your own custom fragrance to fit your unique personality at The Fragrance Shop. This shop provides a pure perfume without alcohol or any harmful fillers and radiates a smooth, long-lasting, rich, and balanced signature scent.

Treat yourself to some retail therapy at Sofia's Boutique.

Enjoy an atmosphere where women are encouraged to embrace and embody their authentic expression and remember their essence. Located in historic Carr Mill, Sofia’s Boutique has a divine mix of gorgeous clothes, shoes, accessories and gifts, designed by artists and brands whose creations allow your unique style to shine.

Transport yourself with live music at the station

Carrboro’s historic 1882 train station is now a festive watering hole with live music, DJs, and outdoor tables. Tap those Carrboro feel free vibes with live music, beer, and cocktails at The Station in the heart of downtown.  

Saturday

Whip up some culinary crafts with C’est si Bon Cooking School

Sign-up for C’est si Bon Cooking School and get hands-on experience to become a culinary genius. Learn the skills you need to enrich, empower, and nourish your life. Find your inner-chef!

Let the power of art inspire you as you explore local crafts galleries

Be amazed by the North Carolina Crafts Gallery and its contemporary and traditional pottery, blown glass, wood turnings, jewelry, metalwork, toys, folk art, garden art, kaleidoscopes, baskets, fiber art and more. The retail gallery features a wide selection of work handcrafted exclusively by North Carolina artists and craftsmen.

Let your soul sing with a trip to All Day Records

Browse through new and used records, books, and vintage stereo gear at All Day Records. With a large selection of house, electro, techno, disco, punk music, and more, this reputable record shop will get your toes tappin’ and your head boppin’.

Create a custom piece of jewelry

Relax at the walnut counter at Ring’s True in historic Carr Mill Mall and create a one-of-a-kind work with master artisan and jewelry craftsman Karl Linger. You’ll enjoy a delightfully collaborative design process as Karl expertly guides you through aesthetic and practical considerations. Create an ethically-sourced and state of the art bespoke sparkler to always remember your special weekend in Carrboro! 

Rock with renowned musicians at the Triangle’s premier live music venue: The Cat's Cradle

Jam out to established and up-and-coming bands alike in an intimate setting. Feel the bass under your feet and dance with the crowd to a performance you will never forget. The Cat’s Cradle is the cornerstone of musical influence in the Triangle and is credited for helping launch such indie rock careers as Superchunk, Ben Folds Five, and Whiskeytown.

Sunday

Enrich your inner-artist at The ArtsCenter

The ArtsCenter is the soul of the arts community in Carrboro. Discover your inner-artist and take a class, enjoy a performance, or experience one of the many educational opportunities provided at The ArtsCenter. They provide an instructive environment for possibility and inspiration, with tools for people of all ages and skill levels to participate in the arts.

Purchase a handmade craft by women artisans at WomanCraft Gifts

Get the perfect gift, handmade from artisans who have an eye for detail and a flair for the unique. Explore the work of 70+ artists to find whimsical, elegant, and functional gifts for any occasion at WomanCraft Gifts.

Make a lasting memory of your creative weekend with a personalized tattoo at Glenn’s Tattoo Service, Inc.

Glenn’s will provide you with a quality piece of art that you can be proud of for a lifetime. Enter a safe, inclusive space that strives to provide a comfortable, clean, and professional environment with experienced employees to make your creative weekend everlasting.