FLORENCE – The November First Fridays is almost here, and we’ll be partnering with the University of North Alabama to Paint it Purple. The event is Friday, Nov. 4, from 5-8 p.m. on Court Street in downtown Florence.
“Our Paint it Purple event in November has become a First Fridays favorite,” said Belinda Duke, the chairwoman of the event. “It makes sense to welcome parents as part of the annual Parents’ Weekend and help make them feel welcome to campus as well as to our beautiful downtown.”
Approximately 30 UNA departments will be represented at booths that will line the center of Court Street. Back by popular demand, the UNA Public Safety Department will offer Segway rides, and UNA’s live lions, Leo and Una, will make an appearance, as will their mascots. The most interactive portion of the Paint it Purple event will be a klunker car that participants can paint in purple and gold for a donation to a local nonprofit agency.
“We’re also encouraging our vendors to decorate their booths in purple and gold, and folks who attend should wear UNA’s colors, too,” Duke said. “We love UNA, and we’re so glad to have the opportunity to welcome folks and to celebrate what they do for our community.”
Music will kick off on the Big River Broadcasting stage at 5 p.m. with Carson Bruce. His set will be followed by country duo Wendell Franks and Shane Blalock at 6 p.m. Carver Commodore will close out the music portion of the event at 7 p.m.
In November, First Fridays will extend north on Court Street to accommodate the classic cars and trucks as well as Jeeps that will be on display.
Plans are already underway for the December First Fridays, which is scheduled for Dec. 2. The theme for the event is “An Old Fashioned Florence Christmas,” and Duke said one of the key features is a costume contest. Participants are encouraged to dress in old-fashioned clothing characteristic of the era.
The Shoals Writers’ Guild is also hosting the first “Christmas in the City Author and Artist Crawl” that will highlight local authors.
November and December are the perfect time to shop for the holidays as the selection of vendors is at its best. Local artisans will be on hand with their hand-crafted cutting boards, jewelry items, and even some smaller furniture pieces and decorative housewares.
“You’re sure to find something to buy from our vendors,” Duke said. “Our committee works to select the best representatives from our applicants to bring items to the event that are unique and well-done. If your goal is to shop local this holiday, First Fridays is the best place to start.”
Media Release/Downtown Florence Unlimited
