#5 and #6: Performance and Exhibit "Destination Dix" festival

On July 23rd, Raleigh put on the Destination Dix festival at the newly acquired Dorothea Dix Hospital grounds - now the "Dorothea Dix Park." 

'twas a hot and sunny day...

The hospital used to be owned by the state and was a hospital for patients with mental illnesses. It is now (well, as of July 2015) owned by the City of Raleigh. The buildings are used now as the headquarters for the Department of Health and Human Services, and the rest of those 308 acres are being transitioned into being a "destination park." 

It was so hot, the hot air balloon had trouble lifting off. The temperature of the air inside the balloon was too similar to the temperature outside (lack of differential? Wasn't sure if that was the right word choice, but if it is... yay!) . :-o No rides for us! T-T

The balloon was pretty on the inside!

I'm assuming that means they want to put on more festivals and events here in the future, which I'm cool with (although, from what I understand, the patients who used to be here are now located outside of Raleigh, sort of out in the countryside. I'm not sure if that's so great, but I'm sure it's cheaper for the taxpayers? Must be hard to visit family now though...). 

The bubble pool! This is near the end of the day, but it was overflowing the bubbles earlier.

Gypsy Jule is a local vendor with awesome stuff! If you get a chance, check out their wares!

Potato Bombs from Stuft, a food truck specializing in baked potatoes. These were sinfully delicious! While my taste buds were being serenaded by a beautiful orchestra of flavors, my ears were buzzing with joyful tunes from a fun, folky, local band, Bombadil. 

Despite some recent laws by the current Governor, Pat McCrory, there are many in NC who are supportive of equal rights here. I love seeing positive art like this in my city!

KJets