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Community Spirit is Positively Vibrant at Third Fridays in Downtown Decatur

By: Lillie Beth Warner, Communications Director, Decatur Morgan County Tourism

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Welcome to Downtown Decatur, Alabama, where the vibrant spirit of community comes alive at Third Fridays. If you’re looking for an exciting experience that showcases the local way, you’re in for a treat.

From April through October, on the third Friday of every month, the streets of Downtown Decatur transform into a lively festival, filling 2nd Avenue with an array of vendors, talented artists, and a party like no other. This beloved tradition began in 2012, and since then, Third Fridays have become a popular destination for locals and visitors alike.

What makes Third Fridays so special?

Themes: Each Third Friday has its own theme! Past themes have included Bike Night, Young Professional Night, Downtown Disco, Dog Days, and more. Be sure to check the Third Friday Facebook page for updates on upcoming theme nights.

Local Vendors: Third Fridays are a celebration of local artisans and creators. Talented artists and entrepreneurs showcase their booths along the street, offering guests the opportunity to connect with creatives in the community, discover unique goods, and maybe even take home a special keepsake.

Music and Performances: As you stroll along 2nd Avenue, you’ll hear a DJ who keeps the party going throughout the night. You might find groups of line dancers encouraging the crowd to join in their dances. If you’re lucky, you may even catch a performance by one of Decatur’s local theatre troupes. No matter what or who, the performances at Third Friday are sure to lift your spirits and get your toes tapping!

Delicious Delights: No festival is complete without tasty treats, and Third Friday doesn’t disappoint. Food vendors and local restaurants set up their stations, offering mouthwatering options to satisfy any craving. Whether you’re in the mood for traditional southern fare, snow cones, or unique street food, you can find it all at Third Fridays.

Family-Friendly Fun: Third Fridays are a great opportunity for families to enjoy quality time together. Kids will have a blast with activities such as face painting, crafts, and inflatables. You can even bring the family dog along! Third Fridays are a chance to create lasting memories together and foster a shared love for community events.

The festival’s lively and welcoming atmosphere ensures that everyone, regardless of age, can find something they will enjoy.

Community Engagement: Beyond the vendors, music, and food, Third Fridays are an embodiment of community spirit. The event brings together people from all walks of life, fostering a sense of togetherness and connection. It is a place to meet new people, make friends, and support local businesses and artisans. Third Fridays not only entertain but also strengthen Decatur as a community.

Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Third Fridays provide a fantastic opportunity to truly immerse yourself in the spirit of Decatur. So mark your calendars, gather your friends and family, and get ready to experience Downtown Decatur, Alabama, at Third Fridays!

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