AMERICUS — On Friday, July 1, Americus will hold its monthly First Friday downtown-wide open house from 5-8 p.m. Residents are invited to kick off their independence day holiday Friday evening strolling the streets of downtown and experiencing the city’s scene and culture. Some events may stretch into the night and everyone is invited to enjoy First Friday After Dark. The Americus Trolley will provide attendees transportation throughout downtown. The trolley will make a loop of the event with four stops and is free of charge. Restaurants, shops and businesses will host a variety of activities ranging from live music and art exhibits to discounts and free samples. All activities, exhibits and performances are free of charge. Maps and playbills detailing the evening’s events will be available at participating locations. Everyone is invited and welcomed..
Live music for this July event will include Picken’ & Grinnin,’ an open jam by the Southeast Bluegrass Association, to be hosted at the CIty Grill. Cafe Campesino will host an open mic night. Grand Central will have a live band for shoppers listening pleasure. Center Stage Market will be hosting a live music performance as well.
The Americus Center for the Arts will be open all night and invites everyone to come in for an up-close experience with local artists. Center Stage Market will be hosting an art show along with free samples to accompany their live music. The Rylander Theatre is inviting everyone in for a tour. Allie’s Boutique will have a  “sip & shop “ promotion during the event.
The Maze, Rustic Charm and Ginger Roots will all be giving samples and discounts for the entire event.
Sweet Ga. Baking Co. will be open from 6-8 p.m. and offering a raffle for a 4th of July fireworks prize. Special dishes for First Friday will include BLTs and peach cobbler.
This event is organized by the First Friday Association of Americus (FFA) with the primary mission of cultivating downtown Americus’ economic and cultural enrichment by providing a platform for entertainment and social engagement to the general public on a regular basis.