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Let the countdown begin for the second annual LAUNCH, Sacramento’s indie design and music festival. The one-night showcase features runway fashion, architecture, live music, furniture design and an array of other art forms all in one location: the Artisan multipurpose art venue on Del Paso Blvd.
Planning of the festival started more than two years ago with a group of friends passionate about two things: art and Sacramento.
“There’s a different side of Sacramento than most people think,” said Michael Hargis, the event’s coordinator. “A lot of creative people want to go other places.”
Hargis and his team set out to represent the local art scene while also bringing in talent from other parts of the country.
“We wanted to put all the things that inspire us under one roof for one night,” he said. “It’s an extravaganza of all things we think are cool.”
The event was a success last year, but the focus was mainly on fashion and music. Hargis said that this year the concept has been expanded, with a broader approach to design.
Friend of Hargis and Fashion Director of the event, Jen Wade, is excited about the runway show and the local designers involved.
“It’s a celebration of what we have to offer locally as far as fashion,” Wade said.
R. Douglas and the designing duo of Van Der Neer: Nicole Kniss and Justin Johnson, will be showing along with local boutiques Fringe, Krazy Mary’s, Sugar Shack and Vintage YSJ. Models will strut the catwalk to a combination of live music and DJs.
Musicians will be traveling from all over the continent for the special evening. The Faint’s latest project, Depressed Buttons, will be headlining the night with their synthesized dance music. Toronto’s Woodhands, Oakland’s Hottub and RESA of Los Angeles will also be taking the stage with several local favorites including Sea of Bees, New Humans and The Generals.
Media Relations and Sponsorship Coordinator Lauren Silva said she is eager to hear the bands perform.
“Last year I think I burned over a thousand calories dancing to the different musicians,” Silva said. “I anticipate this year’s lineup will make it hard not to do the same.”
With the economy down, organizers decided to lower ticket prices for the event to just $10 dollars compared to last year’s $20 cover.
“We’re not looking to make money off the event, we are looking for longevity,” Hargis said. “We want to be able to do this for years to come. We want to create our own niche.”
The team hopes to someday turn LAUNCH into a multi-day festival.
“In the future, we would like to do the event every year because of the momentum,” added Wade.
A free shuttle service will be offered from Hot Italian in Midtown to The Artisan, running from 7 p.m.-1:30 a.m. Tickets are available for pre-sale at Hot Italian or UnitedState for $10 but can also be purchased the door. The Artisan is located at 1901 Del Paso Blvd.
For more information, visit 5432Launch.com.
All photos are from last year's LAUNCH.

