FAYETTEVILLE — First Thursday is partnering with the Fayetteville Public Library to host more events geared toward children.
The announcement came Wednesday during a news conference at the Visitors Bureau.
Marilyn Heifner, director of the Advertising and Promotion Commission, said the monthly art event will feature more live entertainment.
“We want to expose people at a young age,” she said. “A family might not be able to afford a Van Gogh, but they can buy the work of a local artist.”
Children’s events will begin at 5:30 p.m. on the main stage on Mountain Street.
David Johnson, director of the library, said he plans to bring in nationally and locally known artists, such as Trout Fishing in America, DJ Paparap, Afrique Aya, Sugar Free Allstars, the Institute of Juggology and Tommy’s Terrific Wacky Magic Show.
“Whenever we open something up to the community, there needs to be a children’s component,” he said. “The Fayetteville Public Library is known for entertaining children. This is another way to bring what we do inside our walls out into the community.”
First Thursday is a monthly event on the downtown square featuring works by local artists.
In addition to outdoor art walks, a kids’ zone and a charity beer garden, several additions include food trucks on East Street, a wine walk presented by Arkansas wineries and kids art activities presented by Arvest Bank.
First Thursday begins at 5 p.m. March 7 and will continue through October. The event will not take place in July.
Bands will perform on the main stage from 7 to 9 p.m.
Music performances will include Full House, Oreo Blue, Calle Soul, Groovement, Joe Giles & the Homewreckers, Boom Kinetic and the PolkaMeisters.