*Updated 7/28 to address confusion about the date of the event.*

I love the bonus of combining a shopping spree with supporting local crafters and businesses. This Sunday, August 1, you can do just that and also benefit the Gulf Relief Network (healthygulf.org), which is doing what it can to help fix the BP oil fiasco. Head over to Starry Nites Cafe (696 University Ave.) 11 a.m.-5 p.m., and check out 18 local artisans with wares ranging from organic fine metal jewelry by Sharon Jeter, to darkly whimsical illustrations by Robert Frank, to handmade vintage aprons by Sondra Gjersoe of "Misere Loves Co." Other offerings include letterpress art, stuffed creatures, accessories, and textile weavings. All proceeds from a silent auction with work donated by participating artists will go to the Gulf Restoration Network.

Visitors will also be entertained by a live performance by the Capoeira Mandinga players and can receive $1/minute chair massages by Colleen Doyle, LMT. The cafe will offer $1 special for fair-trade iced coffees during the event.

A Midsummers ARTfest was dreamt up by local metal smith Marisa Krol, who says, "there are a lot of people ‘following their heart' in this city, and living what they believe in, that's what this festival is all about." For more information, visit the Facebook page for A Midsummers ARTfest.