The Three Rivers Arts Festival's schedule is packed with performances, gallery exhibits and activities to keep you Downtown for its 10 days and nights. That's long enough to drive up anyone's appetite. So, when preparing to spend days absorbing as much culture as possible, make sure your blood sugar doesn't suffer, and plan your meals, too. Here are a few ways to ensure the hanger is kept at bay.
While you're planning which events to attend, Google dining spots near Downtown. The Golden Triangle's restaurant scene is booming and likely offers worthy options. Whether you're looking for something quick (a slice of pizza) or ready to drop serious cash (on a fancy steak), Downtown's culinary landscape provides several options. Make a list of dishes you'd like to try and go on a restaurant crawl or stop into a bar to cool off with a midday sip. Pro tip: plan ahead and make reservations if possible. A lot of other people will be dining out and slogging from restaurant to restaurant on an empty stomach — a sure way to bring down your mood.
If the forecast isn't promising rain, picnic-style meals are a great way to save some money. A lightweight cooler that you don't mind carrying should allow you to get creative. Everything from a simple PB&J and carrot sticks to an on-the-fly cheese and charcuterie snack plate will add to the enjoyment of time spent at Arts Festival. Also, a meal al fresco is a fun treat. Top it off with a drink at a nearby bar when you need a break. You can BYOF to the Arts Festival, but BYOB is off limits.