If you’re in the area this weekend, don’t miss the Toe River Studio Tour. This twice-yearly event is a great chance to have a look at all the fabulous art being made here in Mitchell and Yancey counties (and to fill your holiday stockings with the local and handmade). Studios will be open to visitors from 12:00 to 4:00 pm on Friday, December 2, with a reception at the Spruce Pine TRAC Gallery from 5 to 7 pm. Visiting hours will be 10 am to 5 pm on Saturday and Sunday December 3 and 4. These free, self-guided tours offer visitors an opportunity to search out the professional artists and craftspeople working in the coves and hollows of the two rural mountain counties. More information, including a list of participating artists and galleries, and downloadable tour maps and studio tour guides, is available at the Toe River Arts Council website.