FLORENCE– Ten years ago, a small group of community-minded volunteers had an idea to spotlight Florence’s historic downtown with a monthly gathering of artisans and musicians. Since then, First Fridays has grown to become one of the biggest and most well-attended events in the Shoals.
On August 7, from 5-8 p.m., we’re celebrating our anniversary with a super-sized event featuring great bands, more than 100 artisans, and lots of exciting birthday-themed activities that are perfect for a family night of fun!
“First Fridays is 10 years old, and that’s reason to celebrate,” said Andy Frith, the chairman of the First Fridays committee. “An anniversary like this doesn’t come around often, so we want to have a festive and fun event, but we also plan to recognize those volunteers who set the stage, so to speak, for the event we all enjoy today.”
Among those who worked to create First Fridays is Lori Davis. She has since moved away from Florence, but she will return, along with others on the original committee, including Carolyn Waterman, Mary Nicely, and Barbara Broach, and all will be recognized for their contributions to growing downtown Florence thanks to their vision for and execution for First Fridays.
In keeping with the birthday theme, Frith said several local celebrities will take their turn in a dunking booth.
Dr. Ken Kitts
“We’re inviting folks to take their turn at the booth by dunking a Big River Broadcasting on-air celebrity, one of our local elected officials, or even Dr. Ken Kitts, the new president at the University of North Alabama,” Frith said.
Further, those who attend can take part in classic birthday-themed activities, including drawing on Court Street with sidewalk chalk, getting a glow-in-the-dark bracelet, and hula-hooping.
Music will also be a big draw at the Aug. 7 First Fridays. Rachel Wammack, the reigning Miss UNA, will take the Big River Broadcasting stage at 5 p.m., and she’ll be followed at 6 p.m. by local favorite Blind the 
Sky.
There will be a classic car cruise-in at the north end of Court Street, and more than 100 vendors will line the sidewalks along Court Street and selling a variety of items, including original works of art, jewelry, woodwork, and leather goods.
A variety of local nonprofits will also be represented, including Room at the Inn, the UNA Department of Education Multicultural Club, the Northwest Alabama Spay and Neuter Club, and the Children’s Museum of the Shoals.
Media release/Downtown Florence Unlimited
