A free event for those of all ages from 6 to 9 p.m.
What started more than a decade ago as a block party, has grown into a monthly tradition in Ambler. First Friday, hosted by Ambler Main Street, is slated for Aug. 2 from 6 to 9 p.m. throughout downtown Ambler, and it continues a long-standing special event that is open to all ages.
“We have a very basic goal, to support the town – residents and businesses,” said Liz Wahl Kunzier, Ambler Main Street Manager. “Everything we do is aimed at promoting the town, supporting the businesses and giving the residents and local community a vibrant exciting place to live, work, shop, be entertained, and dine.”
There is no charge for the events, which run May through October.
“We did try in November, and the weather was just too cold,” said Kunzier. And cost? “Never! All of our events are always free.”
Kunzier said that the no-cost functions of Ambler Main Street keep them accessible both financially and to those of all ages.
“There’s something for everybody,” she said.
A free Kids’ Zone offers arts and crafts, games, inflatables, shows, and more. Live music, displayed original art, and various food and merchant promotions can be found for all those strolling through Ambler’s downtown. There is even complimentary wine and cheese available as you widow shop the avenue.
“We hope the event brings in more foot traffic for the local businesses and restaurants,” said Kunzier. “People may not shop or dine that night, but our hope is that people will notice a cool spot that they didn’t realize was there at an event and come back.”
Ambler Main Street is a nonprofit organization that works to promote the Borough’s downtown. It is operated by volunteers throughout the community who live in, work in, and or just love the Borough of Ambler. The organization aims to improve the community, promoting economic development.
Formed in the late ‘90s, the group began as business owners gathered to “revitalize the downtown area.” They received funding from the national Main Street program, as well as Montgomery County.
Kunzier said she is hoping the weather cooperates for the Aug. 2’s festivities. When asked about unique features for August’s date, “hopefully it won’t be the heat,” she said.
“We have Front Porch Revival singing for us at the stage in front of the Ambler Savings Bank,” she said. “We have some super cool food trucks coming on Ridge Avenue, kids’ activities, and a dance/workout demo down at Swaddle and Mermaid.”
Kunzier said there is always something new coming to the functions that keeps it fresh and exciting.
“Lots of really cool specialty vendors are coming,” she said. “That will all be located between Ridge and Lindenwold.”
The manager of the Ambler Main Street said she is hopeful the August First Friday event will also pick up some otherwise quiet summer business traffic.
“Summer is a very slow time in town,” said Kunzier. “Don’t forget your local shops and restaurants. They need your support all year round!”
If you are a business looking to become involved in the Ambler Main Street’s First Fridays, reach out to the nonprofit at info@amblermainstreet.org.
