FLORENCE – For many, Christmas is the most wonderful time of year, and the December First Fridays is certainly a way to help get into the holiday spirit. This month’s event will be Friday, from 5-8 p.m. on Court Street in downtown Florence.
“It’s probably the one First Fridays that folks look forward to the most,” said First Fridays Chairman Andy Frith. “It’s fun for people doing their holiday shopping, children hoping to have a visit with Santa, and for those who just want to spend time in our downtown.”
Santa is expected to arrive in grand fashion at 6:30 p.m., Frith said. He’ll be near the intersection of Court Street and Mobile Plaza, but he’ll also be walking throughout the crowd.
The Big River Broadcasting stage will also be carrying the sounds of the season. At 5 p.m. Jordy Searcy, who appeared on the NBC hit show “The Voice,” will take the stage. Laura’s Studio of Performing Arts will perform a Christmas dance at 5:50 p.m. At 6 p.m., the Tyler Mitchell Band will perform some rocking Christmas tunes, and the stage will close out at 7 p.m. with Jim Marlborough and the Bama Cruisers
. Folks are also invited to the city’s annual tree lighting ceremony at 6 p.m. in Wilson Park. “We’re really fortunate to live in a downtown that’s not only safe but festive and fun for the holidays,” Frith said. “First Fridays, along with the city’s tree lighting, will be fun and are all but guaranteed to get you into the holiday spirit.”
MEDIA RELEASE/f Downtown Florence Unlimited, : Michelle Rupe Eubanks
