Second Saturday ArtWalk, May 2024

5/2/2024

May 11, 2024

For more than 30 years, the monthly art walk has become one of the most popular events in the region. Old Town stays lively all day, with many merchants and restaurants offering specials.

The pace picks up from 4–7 pm, when gallery openings and live music keep the streets humming with activity.

May's Hot Spots are The Loft, 108 S. Beach Boulevard; The Prop Shop, 112 S. Second Street; and Blu Bay, 131 Main Street, #9. Read more about these featured businesses below!

- Story and photos by McKenzey Northington

The Loft
108 S. Beach Boulevard. 2nd Floor, BSL | (504) 701-0980
Thurs 4 – 9 pm; Fri:3 – 11 pm; Sat 1 – 11 pm; Sun 12 – 8 pm

Nestled upstairs at 108 South Beach Boulevard, The Loft offers a unique blend of hospitality and charm. Owned by Sabine Bellew, a veteran of the hospitality industry, The Loft has quickly become a vibrant cornerstone of the Bay St. Louis nightlife and event scene.

The Loft isn’t just a place to grab a drink; it’s a versatile venue that hosts a variety of events. From weddings and birthday parties to fundraisers and corporate meetings, the space offers a stunning view of the beach and the Bay St. Louis Harbor, accommodating up to 140 guests. “We provide a comprehensive vendor list and assist with every detail, ensuring a seamless event,” says Sabine.

For those looking for a more relaxed setting, The Loft offers wine, beer, and an array of craft cocktails alongside delicious charcuterie boards. The venue’s cozy and intimate atmosphere is perfect for small gatherings, with wine barrel tables available for reservation.

This Second Saturday, May 11, The Loft is set to enchant its visitors with an extended evening of live music featuring Rumours, a celebrated Fleetwood Mac cover band, from 7 to 10 pm. Their iconic tunes are sure to create a lively and entertaining atmosphere. In celebration of their hotspot status, The Loft is eager to showcase their specialty drinks, offering patrons the chance to win gift certificates with each purchase of their crafty cocktails from 7 to 10 pm on Second Saturday.

On regular days, visitors can enjoy Live Music Sundays from 2:00 to 5:30 pm in The Loft’s party room, adding a melodious backdrop to any weekend outing. Check their Facebook page for updates on upcoming shows and other special events open to the public.

May is filled with unique events at The Loft. On May 31, immerse yourself in a 1950s-themed Murder Mystery Dinner Show—an interactive experience that promises suspense and excitement. The following day, June 1, prepare for laughter at their stand-up comedy show featuring a lineup of talented comedians.

Sabine’s journey into the heart of Bay St. Louis reflects her passion for bringing people together. “After moving here and starting anew, The Loft was a perfect opportunity to bring my event planning skills to life,” she shares. With Jacob’s expertly crafted drinks and the team’s dedication to quality, The Loft is more than just a bar—it’s a place where memories are made.

As Second Saturday approaches, The Loft is prepared to offer both locals and visitors an experience that embodies the spirit of Bay St. Louis—community, music, and unforgettable evenings. If you are looking to enjoy a lively band, participate in a raffle, or simply savor a night out with friends, The Loft is your go-to destination – on May 11 and beyond.

The Prop Shop
112 S. Second St. (located on the first and third floors of Century Hall), BSL
(504) 858-8574
Mon-Fri 10 am – 5 pm; Sun11 am – 3 pm

Inside the charming, historic Century Hall at 112 South Second Street, The Prop Shop is more than just a boutique: it’s a vibrant cultural hub in Bay St. Louis. Owned by the dynamic Kerry Maloney, this unique store offers a plethora of vintage clothing, costumes, and one-of-a-kind accessories that capture the essence of individuality and creative expression.

As a photographer at the Alabama Shakespeare Festival, Kerry fell in love with the idea of everyday items as “props” in our lives. This concept blossomed into The Prop Shop, where each item tells a story and celebrates the theatricality of daily existence. “I call it The Prop Shop because of the props of our lives. Our hats, our clothes – they're just everyday props,” Kerry explains with a sparkle in her eye.

This Second Saturday, May 11, promises an extraordinary experience at The Prop Shop. The store is hosting a special event that includes a sidewalk sale, live music, and exclusive discounts. All items in the store will be offered at a 25% discount, and Kerry is donating 10% of the sales to BYOBikes, a local charity that provides bicycles to at-risk youth.

The musical lineup is set to enthuse with local DJ Doug Funnie spinning records from 12-1 pm and 2-3 pm. From 1-2 pm, Nashville-based singer-songwriter Casual Drifter will perform an acoustic set of his honky-tonk psychedelic country music, which will keep your feet moving with his vibrant melodies.

Kerry’s passion for vintage is evident as she describes her mission to counter fast-fashion by offering beautifully crafted, sustainable alternatives. “There are so many beautiful things that get thrown away that are well made, interesting, and beautiful. I love the style of these things, and I want to send them off to new homes where people appreciate them,” she says emphatically.

Visitors to The Prop Shop can expect a fun and immersive shopping experience. Kerry aims to make art a part of everyday life, whether through her “magic junk machine” filled with quirky knick-knacks, the colorful array of vintage clothes that await new owners, or her new line of retro-themed Bay St. Louis gear ranging from t-shirts to hats and koozies.

For those looking to explore the vibrant culture of Bay St. Louis, The Prop Shop is a must-visit destination on Second Saturday. Here, every item has a history and every purchase supports a noble cause, making it a perfect blend of commerce, community, and creativity.

Blu Bay
131 Main St., #9, BSL

Situated in the vibrant heart of Old Town Bay St. Louis, Blu Bay offers a unique escape above the bustling streets, where the serene comforts of home blend with the rich culture of the area. Blu Bay, a beautifully decorated loft-style Airbnb managed by Caroline Davis, is an integral part of Old Town’s charm and a central feature of the Second Saturday celebrations.

This Second Saturday, May 11, Blu Bay will offer a curated afternoon of jazz and community engagement from 4 to 7 pm in the parking lot of the building. Guests can savor the melodies of the Blue Blazers, a jazz band directed by John Hester, known for its soulful sounds and engaging performances. In addition to the musical offerings, visitors who stop by Blu Bay can enjoy light hors d’oeuvres, refreshing beverages, and a free entry into Blu Bay’s giveaway drawing with prizes donated by the businesses located on the first floor of Blu Bay’s building. This initiative not only enhances the festive spirit but also encourages visitors to explore the diverse offerings of the area.

Blu Bay itself boasts an inviting array of amenities. The Airbnb features two bedrooms, a private balcony overlooking Main Street, and modern comforts in a loft accessed via a private keypad entry. The decor combines coastal elegance with modern convenience, ideal for guests seeking a peaceful retreat amid the city’s lively cultural scene.

Below the serene retreat of Blu Bay, the building houses four distinctive businesses: B.E.E. by the Bay Art Gallery, California Drawstrings, Dragonfly, and Shoe Boutique.

Blu Bay and its accompanying businesses embody the essence of Bay St. Louis, where culture, comfort, and community converge.

Blu Bay invites everyone to experience their unique charm, whether it’s enjoying the soothing jazz, exploring the local shops, or planning your next getaway in the beautifully appointed Airbnb above. Come and discover why Blu Bay is a perfect starting point for exploring the best that Bay St. Louis has to offer.