You've heard of TGIF, but thanks to the Manheim Area Chamber of Commerce, now you can say "TGIT" - thank goodness it's Thursday. 1st Thursdays kicked off June 3 and will run from 5 to 8 p.m. through December; July's event will take place on Thursday, July 1.
"Manheim has seen a number of exciting new ventures join the downtown landscape, adding to the many strong established businesses," said Jason Horst, owner of Horst Arts and a board member of the Manheim Area Chamber of Commerce, who is organizing the effort. "The time was right to launch a monthly event that showcases what Manheim has to offer. 1st Thursdays provide a way for Manheim residents to experience, celebrate and support their local town, while also offering businesses a chance to interact with their community."
Horst noted that organizers also hope 1st Thursdays will draw in visitors beyond locals. "Many people outside of Manheim don't realize the revitalization that has taken place, so we're also aiming to bring in visitors from out of town to broaden the client base of local businesses," he explained.
Before launching 1st Thursdays, Chamber members looked to other towns and what they were already doing. "Many towns are experiencing success with monthly downtown events," Horst stated. "Fridays are used by Elizabethtown, Lititz, Mount Joy and Lancaster. Because of that, and because football Fridays are huge in Manheim in the fall, we decided to go with Thursdays."
Special events will vary each month, but every 1st Thursday will feature live music at the Mini Park, across Main Street from Market Square, as well as promotions and activities at downtown businesses. "The sidewalks of Market Square will be filled with outside vendors of all kinds," Horst remarked. "A hub of food trucks will be a regular feature at each 1st Thursday."
July's event will feature local singer-songwriter Nathan Landis Funk at the Mini Park, as well as Wich Way Sandwiches and other food trucks at the Zion Lutheran Church parking lot on Hazel Street. "Lancaster County Magazine will be set up on Market Square to promote their July issue in which Manheim is the featured town, and the Manheim Historical Society will have the Fasig House and the Keath House open to visitors for the first time since the start of the pandemic," Horst stated, adding that the evening will also feature other fun surprises. "Keep an eye out for the town crier, who will be directing crowds toward featured activities."
The event's website, http://www.1stThursdays.com, will list participating businesses and special activities each month, along with participating vendors on Market Square, food trucks and entertainment. "It also provides detailed information and applications for businesses and volunteers wanting to get involved," Horst said. "And while the hub of activity is happening downtown, 1stThursdays.com is also a resource to find other local businesses outside of the downtown area who will be offering food or other entertainment between 5 and 8 p.m. during 1st Thursday."
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