|
As winter’s cold temperatures and icy winds settle over the countryside, Urbanna residents may be piling logs on the fire, but they certainly aren’t losing any steam. The picturesque streets and waterways of this corner of the world provide the perfect backdrop for dozens of wintertime activities that will be fondly remembered when the mercury hits the triple digits.
Urbanna’s art and antiques scene, which includes such notable spots as Nimcock Gallery and Rolling Road Gallery, is celebrated throughout the state and has recently been enhanced by the addition of Urbanna Harbor Gallery & Art Services. A leisurely stroll to view fine art and rummage through relics of days past can provide some welcome mental and physical stimulation to people tired of being cooped up indoors.
For a group outing that will please all tastes, head over to Pieces of Peper, where jewelry-smith Peper Heunemann offers classes all winter long. Accommodating up to five students, Heunemann’s classes help participants produce jewelry, ornaments and charms in copper, brass, or silver. The best part? "When the student leaves the class, they have a finished piece in their hand," says Heunemann.
Those seeking a jolt of excitement can head over to the Urbanna Auction Company on alternate Thursdays to bid on a treasure or simply soak up the atmosphere of an old-fashioned auction. The husband-wife team of Terry Smith and Matt Elliott, who also own the Urbanna Flea Market and Antiques, has worked hard to create a unique and welcoming atmosphere.
"We try to make the auction a lot of fun, as well as get some good prices for things," says Smith. With those goals in mind, they kick off each auction with a bell and keep the energy high from 6 p.m., when the bidding starts, to around 9 p.m., when it finishes (a 4 p.m. preview precedes each event). The couple employs traditional "ring" people, who answer questions, interact with the audience and run tickets up to the cashier. Smith and Elliott act as auctioneers, using the old-fashioned, high-speed patter to call out the items and bids. But don’t worry about getting lost—"You can understand every word we say," Smith promises.
For those looking for a break from the daily grind, Urbanna also offers a host of quieter pleasures. The town’s well-appointed bed and breakfasts allow guests to indulge guilt-free in an afternoon of reading or hobbies. And when Valentine’s Day arrives in mid-February, many establishments such as the Dragon Run Inn offer special packages for guests. Even if you’re only traveling a few blocks away, a weekend of romance can add a spark to any couple’s routine.
If restlessness sets in after the leap year, an Osprey Cruise with Urbanna Cruises is a refreshing way to launch into spring. Captain Phillip Loftis’ charter service can take interested visitors or residents through protected waterways to see these majestic birds, which build or reconstruct their nests in early March. With ample space for six people, the 22-foot pontoon boat provides a stable platform for photographers and allows passengers to get a close glimpse of the ospreys. For those fascinated by the birds but untutored in their habits or history, Loftis is a font of information.
Whether in search of art, antiques or a few days of peace, Urbanna in the winter is an alluring destination for visitors and a warm haven for residents.
|
locations
Comments