First Fridays keep going strong through fall, winter

The temperature is dropping, but not the number of things to do and see this fall during downtown Springfield’s monthly First Fridays.

“It’s always a good time to get out and support local, even during the fall season,” says Ashten Houseman, downtown events programmer for the Greater Springfield Partnership.

Oct. 7’s First Friday is all about fall, with Oktoberfest on draft and live music by Oliver Penn at Mother Stewart’s Brewing Company. And Champion City Guide & Supply will be celebrating Pugtoberfest  from 5 to 8 p.m. with Ohio Pug Rescue and doggie treats, giveaways, specials, new Pugtoberfest t-shirts and a free Mother Stewart’s Oktoberfest pint for pug owners.

Edward Jones will have snacks and cider at its open house, along with a customer pumpkin carving contest available to view.

Downtown’s newest mural will still be in progress on Friday on the brick wall on the east side of the WesBanco building, but renowned muralist Gaia will discuss its historical significance at 6 p.m..

In addition, National Road Commons Park will display the Project-Scare-A-Crow  submissions, presented by Project Jericho and National Trail Parks and Recreation District.

Food, drink and shopping specials will be offered by a variety of downtown restaurants and shops, and Frame Haven will host a soft opening with its new owners.

Also downtown, Springfield’s Wizarding Weekend at the Heritage Center and throughout downtown Springfield will kick off on Friday with a variety of events for ticketholders.

Visitors also can see how downtown has transitioned from summer to autumn in its storefront décor, using pumpkins, mums and other fall foliage, Houseman says.

First Friday’s goal is to give residents a reason to explore locally owned stores and discover downtown, Houseman says. But just because you have seen one First Friday doesn’t mean you have seen them all. Visitors can make their weekend plans based on what they see and what strikes their interest at each Friday event.

“It’s always a different experience for every First Friday,” she says.

While First Friday organizers collaborate with merchants and vendors to decide on themes, Houseman says she also wants to know what visitors want to see and do on future Fridays. Email her at [email protected] with ideas and suggestions for themes.