In an effort to breathe new life into the arts scene and nightlife of downtown Exeter, a group of arts advocates is launching a new monthly event featuring live music, art gallery openings, historical presentations, wine and beer tastings, and kids’ activities.
“First Fridays: Extown Walks,” an initiative of TEAM (Town Exeter Arts Music), kicks off May 1 and continues on the first Friday of every month through September.
“We’re looking to use homegrown art and music as a catalyst to get more people downtown,” TEAM executive director Scott Ruffner said in a press release.
During each event, recording artist Qwill will perform in the “Bandstand Live” music series, providing a backdrop for the festivities.
The American Independence Museum will host a Redhook Brewery Beer night in Folsom Tavern, as well as colonial games for kids, free tours, and live music from Chad Verbeck.
The Exeter Arts Committee will host an opening reception for its “Spring Show” in the second-floor gallery at Exeter Town Hall, and the Seacoast Artist Association will host a reception for its monthly “theme show challenges.” Stairway to Heaven Comics will offer its “Cartooning with Katie” art class, for children ages 6 to 12, at 4 p.m.
A special installment of First Fridays will take place on July 17 to coincide with the opening of the American Independence Festival.
For more information, find TEAM on Facebook.