Mayor Don Walters is proud to announce the Grand Opening of Front Street and the Falls Downtown Fridays, the summer entertainment series that will be held in Downtown Cuyahoga Falls starting in June. The series will be presented by the City of Cuyahoga Falls, Western Reserve Hospital, Cascade Auto Group, and SearchActions. The Falls Downtown Friday events are Bebop on the Block, River Rock Fest, Crafty Mart, Stars and Stripes: Honoring Our Local Heroes, Taste of the Falls, Kids Fest, and Soul, Rhythm and Brews.
“We are thrilled to reactivate the north and south ends of Front Street and to welcome everyone back to Downtown Cuyahoga Falls,” stated Mayor Don Walters. “With the reopening of Front Street, we have seen tremendous support for our city and businesses, and I cannot wait to see that expand as the redevelopment and revitalization efforts continue.”
“Partnering with the City of Cuyahoga Falls and Mayor Walters for this community event series is one of the many ways we are able to demonstrate our commitment to being loyally local,” said Dr. Robert Kent, president and CEO, Western Reserve Hospital. “The re-opening of Front Street has brought new vibrancy to our town, and we are honored to be part of the efforts that will allow for the continuing growth of Cuyahoga Falls.
The Grand Opening of Front Street is a celebration of the new Downtown Cuyahoga Falls. The event will be held on Saturday, June 2, and will kick-off with a community parade at 10:00 a.m. Following the parade, Downtown Cuyahoga Falls will be activated with local food, craft beer, and retail vendors, entertainment, and character appearances and activities for kids. This event is in partnership with River City Pop Culture Fest.
Bebop on the Block is scheduled for Friday, June 15, from 5:00-10:00 p.m. The event is a celebration of local jazz music and will feature plenty of eclectic music, kids’ activities, and local food and retail vendors.
River Rock Fest will be held on Friday, June 22, from 5:00 to 10:00 p.m. Rock music enthusiasts will enjoy bands representing a diverse array of genres that will be featured on a night where local beer, food, and retail will be highlighted.
Crafty Mart is scheduled for Friday, June 29, from 5:00 – 10:00 p.m. Local artisans will activate and transform our downtown into a marketplace that will showcase creative entrepreneurs and their high-end, handmade goods. This event will feature local music, retail, food, and family-friendly activities.
Stars and Stripes: Honoring Our Local Heroes will be held on Friday, July 6, from 5:00-10:00 p.m. Local country band Buck Naked Band will headline an evening to recognize the efforts of public safety officials who have gone above and beyond the call of duty.
Taste of the Falls is Friday, July 13, from 5:00-10:00 p.m. Culinary delights from all over town, as well as flavors from across the world, will be represented at this mouthwatering event with activities for the whole family to enjoy.
Kids Fest will be held on Friday, July 27, from 4:00-8:00 p.m. This evening of entertainment for children and families includes experiences with music, dance, art, craft making, storytelling, and interactive play. With a variety of kid-friendly food options, this alcohol-free night on the town can be enjoyed by the whole family. The event will be followed by a family movie at the amphitheater.
Finally, Soul, Rhythm, and Brews will be featured on Friday, August 3, from 5:00-10:00 p.m. This event is a celebration of our local craft breweries, local food, and blues entertainment. With a focus on beer tasting and local fare, this evening is sure to set your soul on fire.
Festivals on the riverfront will continue and are scheduled as follows: The Riverfront Irish Festival, June 8-10; Festa Italiana, July 20-22; and Oktoberfest, September 21-23.
The committee is currently seeking volunteers, vendors, entertainers, and parade participants. Applications are available at www.cityofcf.com/activity/falls-downtown-fridays. Applications for parade applicants, entertainment, and vendors are due no later than May 4.