In recent years, downtown Harrisonburg began bustling with activity. Events like the Art Walk, Fridays on the Square, and First Fridays have attracted people to the Downtown area. The Arts Council (and Downtown Renaissance in some cases) organizes the events.

Friday September 3rd was one of seven “First Friday” nights. Running from April to October, First Fridays occur on the first Friday of every month (hence the name) from 5 to 7 pm. Businesses give their spaces to performing, and visual artists who present their creations.

First Fridays, previously known as the Museum and Gallery walk, feature art exhibitions, live music, specialty merchandise, horse carriage rides, and food. Ashley McCoy, an artist and previous organizer, is one of the event’s most experienced exhibitors. She was involved when First Fridays started, back in 2004. Since then First Fridays has blossomed into one of Downtown’s premier events.
“It makes downtown have a feel. A sort of urban feel, which I love. It makes me happy I chose to live [downtown]. There’s that buzz and energy that really gets things going,” McCoy said.

McCoy, a painter and mixed media artist is also appreciative of the opportunities for feedback First Fridays give her.

“I’ve gotten good feedback from people [about my art], which is great. As an artist it makes you feel good. It’s really powerful and exciting,” McCoy said.

McCoy’s favorite piece from her own collection (Annie Get Your Gun), was displayed Friday. 11 other pieces in various areas around downtown were also shown, all part of her decorum exhibition. First Fridays even played an instrumental part in her next unfinished project.

“[First Fridays] was really a a catalyst to help me get going on my latest project… I’m looking forward to showing my whole series,” McCoy said.

Michelle Krone was a first time exhibitor at First Fridays this past week. She showcased her photography.

“I’ve been several times before I set up this stall,” Krone said. “[My favorite thing] is seeing all the local artists displaying their work. The music is great too. It’s a really social event, you’ll always see someone you know.”

As a photographer for the Rosetta Stone, Krone had a few connections and was able to set up a stall in an empty office space.

“People set up in satellite galleries, as they’re called. They’re usually empty store fronts,” McCoy said, standing amidst her exhibition in a vacant shop window.

Both McCoy and Krone agree that First Fridays attracts an assorted crowd of people, and it’s usually not a small turn-out.

“We get a pretty good mix. Students, if they’re here, families, and a normal downtown crowd,” McCoy said. “I live here, so I see certain people at First Fridays. It’s a pretty cool thing,” McCoy said.

Although last Friday was not the biggest crowd, Krone thinks it was uncharacteristic.

“Today seems a little slow, usually there’s a sea of people walking along Main street,” Krone said.

In time, the sea of people could transform into an ocean if people continue to come downtown for an evening of art, food, shopping, and music.

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