Downtown Thomasville’s First Friday Holiday Sip and Stroll will be held Friday, December 6th from 6-10 p.m. This will be the final First Friday Sip and Stroll of the year. “The December First Friday is anticipated to be our largest First Friday of the year,” says April Norton, City of Thomasville Main Street and Business Development Director. “With it being two weeks before Christmas, everyone is in the holiday spirit, including our Downtown merchants. You’re invited to come celebrate the season in Downtown with dinner, shopping, entertainment, and holiday fun.”
In addition to the main stage performance, the Holiday Sip and Stroll will also feature street bands scattered throughout the downtown area performing from 6-8 p.m. These acts include Far2Fresh, Bekah Stewart, Samantha Arwood, and Craig Bloch Band. “We are excited to have the street bands back specifically for December’s First Friday,” says Madison Eaton, City of Thomasville events coordinator. “With Downtown decorated, stores open with extended hours, and holiday music around every corner, the December First Friday is quickly becoming a Christmas tradition for locals and visitors alike.”
Take strolling to a whole new festive level by enjoying a horse-and-carriage ride through the heart of downtown. Carriage rides will be available for $5/per person during the Sip and Stroll. “The sight and sound of horses trotting on the bricks really makes you feel like you’re in a Christmas movie,” said Eaton. “The carriage rides create such a timeless happiness in both children and adults that the Christmas atmosphere comes full circle.” Carriage rides will begin at the intersection of Jefferson Street and Broad Street.
Another addition to this month’s event is Art on the Bricks. “Art on the Bricks is a group of fine artists who will display their works throughout Downtown,” says Norton. “These one-of-a-kind pieces make the perfect holiday gift for the art enthusiast in your life.” Art on the Bricks featured artists will be stationed at easy to find locations throughout the Downtown area.
The evening will conclude in a free concert at The Ritz Amphitheater from 8:00-10:00p.m., featuring the Emerald Empire Band. Filling concert venues around the country, the Emerald Empire Band plays a mix of today’s hits with a touch of oldies, pop, country, and more. With a slogan of we like full dance floors and sore feet, the band is sure to bring a high energy concert to the Ritz. “We are thrilled to have the Emerald Empire Band as our final First Friday headliner this year,” said Eaton. “They are an interactive, fun band that draws a crowd. They will have you dancing on the bricks before the night ends!”
Holiday items and specials will be featured in many businesses and restaurants throughout the whole event. “This is a great time to finish - or start - your holiday shopping,” says Norton. “Our Downtown merchants will have their unique holiday items on display, and many of the restaurants will feature festive menus and sips to take with you while you enjoy the night.”
First Friday Sip and Strolls run from March through December. Admission to the First Friday Holiday Sip and Stroll is free. For more information, call the Thomasville Visitors Center at 229-228-7977 or visit www.thomasvillega.com.