With more than 20 years of tradition, the Short North is renowned for the excitement of its Gallery Hops. The first Saturday of every month, thousands of visitors come to celebrate art and partake in an evening of fabulous sights, dynamic sounds, great food, unparalleled shopping, and cosmopolitan fun. Though many shops are open earlier, the Gallery Hop officially starts at 4 p.m. and runs to 10 p.m. with restaurants and bars staying open considerably later. On a typical Hop, more than 40 galleries and non-traditional art venues (restaurants, boutiques, and personal service shops) spotlight the best of established and emerging Ohio-based artists. They also feature the works of nationally and internationally acclaimed artists. On the streets, performers settle into the many nooks of the District to entertain the throngs of Short North fans. Saxophonists, singers, improvisational dance troupes, even stilt walkers and stage characters add to the unforgettable experience.