First Friday In Downtown Bryan Celebrates 15 Years
Information courtesy of Downtown Bryan Association
.
The Downtown Bryan Association announces the 15th Anniversary of First Friday happening on Friday, October 2. This celebration of First Friday will include Downtown Bryan businesses open all day long, members of the Brazos Valley Farmers’ Market set up along Main St. from 5-9pm, the HeARTbeat of Bryan Art Project and more.
.
First Friday was started in 2005 by local artist and downtown business owner, Greta Watkins. At that time, Downtown Bryan was still in its early stages of revitalization and Watkins wanted a way to draw customers to her store after hours. She invited the community to come enjoy live jazz music and an art exhibit in her store, The Frame Gallery. What started as a very simple concept organically grew over the years as more and more Downtown businesses began to stay open late, host live music, free activities and specials for their customers to enjoy.
.
In 2013, the Downtown Bryan Association (DBA) was asked to help organize First Friday as the number of street performers and non-profit organizations seeking to set up along the sidewalks required more coordination. DBA also booked live music at the Palace Theater, created a food truck area and in most recent years, closed down sections of Main St. to allow for more community groups and family friendly activities.
.
First Friday has now become known as the “must do” community event every month. Often used as a time to catch up with old friends, try a new restaurant or see new art, the local Brazos Valley community has been an integral part of the success of First Friday. The arts, live music, local community, and downtown small businesses were at the heart of the first First Friday, and this is still true today. Even though COVID-19 has changed some of the activities of First Friday, Downtown Bryan can still be enjoyed in person and virtually.
.
The 15th anniversary of First Friday is also in conjunction with Watkin’s retirement. She has recently sold her business to become a full time artist, but will always be remembered as the “Mother of First Friday” and for her constant support and dedication to Downtown Bryan.
.
DBA invites the community to help us celebrate First Friday on October 2. See the full list of business openings and activities here: https://www.downtownbryan.com/first-friday-activities. Follow along virtually on the Historic Downtown Bryan Facebook page.