Much of the River Arts District suffered immense devastation. Helene left nearly 80% of the district destroyed, according to ArtsAVL Executive Director Katie Cornell. But even as work continues to salvage the area, its artists are returning with heart and tenacity.ok so I kind of hate this intro but felt like I needed to acknowledge that much of the area is still devastated

In a celebration of strengthbecause his quote uses resiliency, the RAD will soon host a soft opening with RADFest 1.0 on Saturday, Nov. 9 and Sunday, Nov. 10. From noon to sunset, Roberts Street, Clingman Avenue, Artful Way, and Depot Street (down to 362 Depot St. by NorthLight Studios) will welcome patrons with open studios + galleries, live music, food trucks, and information on restoration + support.

"We wanted to do something to show our resiliency and to celebrate our community and also give an opportunity for locals to come and support us to ensure that we can persevere through one of the most challenging times, economically, emotionally, and physically," said River Arts District Artists President Jeffrey Burroughs.

The soft opening weekend will also launch a weekly art market, where displaced artists will sell their work in the parking lot of Pine Gate Renewables at 130 Roberts St.add the address? You're encouraged, if you can, to walk to the event or carpool to mitigate parking issues.

Additional ways to support

The River Arts District Artists post daily volunteer needs to Instagram, detailing how you can show up to help and listing items you can donate to support cleanup.

The financial needs of the area are great too — so you can also make a donation to the Flood Relief Fund. Donations are distributed in a three-phase process, and the first phase, which is currently active, allows any RAD artist to get an emergency stipend. Phase two will aid those who were most greatly impacted, like those who lost galleries, and phase three will support recovery.