October 29, 2008

Everything’s Waiting for You
Downtown Delaware adds ‘Date Night’ to events lineup

Downtown Delaware

Photo by Paul Molitor

The First Friday events, organized by Main Street Delaware, seek to provide fun for the whole family, typically including special children’s events, music, and more.

“Everybody likes First Friday,” says Bret Snouffer, co-owner of Snouffer Apparel, 26 N. Sandusky St. “It’s been so popular that we’ve talked to customers who want more. They say, ‘Why can’t you do something special every week?’ ”

In response, Snouffer and other downtown business owners have begun designating the second Friday of each month as “date night.”

“Get a baby-sitter and come on downtown,” Snouffer encourages, explaining that Second Friday is intended to allow couples to enjoy each other’s company along with city’s dining, shopping, and entertainment options.

Typically, Snouffer says, up to a dozen stores stay open till 8 p.m. on Second Friday, and feature appetizers, desserts, or other treats to pamper grown-up patrons. On November 14, participating stores will feature chocolates created by MaRu’s Homemade Candy.

But for those eager to enjoy a family night out, Main Street Delaware’s upcoming First Friday celebrations will continue to provide fun for all ages.

On November 7, First Friday will feature free arts and crafts projects for children at Ohio Wesleyan University’s Ross Art Museum, 60 S. Sandusky St.

“This is the perfect setting to promote creativity,” says Tammy Wallace, Ross Art Museum’s first assistant.” I think the children will really enjoy getting to see art and then make some of their own, too.”

Exhibits currently on display at Ross Art Museum are “Discarded to Distinctive,” a show that includes pieces made from old tires, used water bottles, and other recycled items; and “On the Shoulders of Ancestors,” which features the work of Dayton, Ohio, artist and educator Willis “Bing” Davis. His oil pastels, ceramics, and other pieces seek to meld African traditions with life in urban America.

November’s First Friday also will feature free cider and sweets at 57 N. Sandusky St., where shoppers are invited to turn in three receipts from their evening purchases for a chance to win a Main Street Delaware gift certificate. The certificates are redeemable at any Delaware store.

In December, First Friday will kick into ho-ho-holiday mode with families invited to enjoy the city’s annual tree lighting ceremony. Outdoor musicians and carolers will add to the festive atmosphere. The tree lighting will take place at 7:30 p.m. December 5 outside Hoggy’s Restaurant, 13 W. William St. The community’s holiday celebrations are sponsored by a grant from Delaware’s Hiram Masonic Lodge No. 18.

– Cole Hatcher