Friday After 5 returns this week for the 27th season, and Executive Director Fran Marseille said this summer will provide something for everyone in the community. Marseille said this Friday’s kickoff event will be “epic” with a few special events — including a tribute to the late Larry Maglinger — and extra vendors on site.
“Everyone seems excited and thrilled. Personally, I think we’ve worked hard and got a great lineup and great food and great vendors,” Marseille said.
This Friday is City Night and kicks off with a dedication to Maglinger at 5:45 p.m. There will be a “Toast to the Sunset,” plus a drone light show at 8:30.
There will again be stages along the riverfront, including at the Overlook, Convention Center, Lure, and Holiday Inn. Acts include Happiness Jones, Lilly Mae, and Sugar Lime Blue.
Marseille said that she and her board have taken feedback from the community and aspire to provide more for everyone this year. She said it’s hard to meet every wish, but they are aiming for what they can.
“We can’t reach them all or answer everyone’s wishes, but we can provide the best that we can to give a good experience,” she said.
Through partnering with the Convention Center and Daviess County Convention and Visitor’s Bureau, Marseille said FA5 can bring in more attractions and guests. This also allows them to have special themes throughout the summer, such as an upcoming GeoCacheing weekend.
As they are anticipating back to regular attendance numbers, Marseille said she’s thankful for how the community has gotten involved with the weekly tradition, whether in sponsorships or volunteering.
“This is just a passion. I kind of live and breathe it, and I want to see it grow and I want to see people want to come to us and say what about this or what about that,” she said. “Providing that input is really a special thing. That’s the magic.”
