'Culture, cuisine and community': 3rd Fridays kicks off this week at Fall River waterfront

Ashley Schuler, The Herald News
·3 min read

FALL RIVER — Summer fun in the city continues this weekend with the launch of a new series adding life to the waterfront.

Viva Fall River is calling folks from far and near to the iconic Gates of the City to "experience the vibrancy that Fall River has to offer" with its "3rd Fridays" series.

This three-event series, made possible in part by a grant from the Fall River Cultural Council, is presented by the City of Fall River, Viva Fall River, The Fall River Farmers and Artisans Market, and the Fall River Arts and Culture Coalition.

So what is 3rd Fridays all about? Here's a rundown of things to know before you go:

When and where will 3rd Fridays take place?

The 3rd Fridays at The Gates kickoff is slated for Friday, July 21, from 4 to 8 p.m., under the arches of the Gates of the City on Water Street in Fall River. The series stretches through the fall, with events planned for Aug. 18 and Sept. 15.

The Providence Drum Troupe will perform at the first 3rd Fridays event July 21 at Gates of the City.
The Providence Drum Troupe will perform at the first 3rd Fridays event July 21 at Gates of the City.

What can we expect?

"A combination of culture, cuisine, and community," according to Viva Fall River organizers. This week's festivities include music by DJ Juice and a performance that can't be beat by the Providence Drum Troupe starting at 6 p.m. You can also shop until you drop at their Maker's Market featuring handmade goods from local artists and crafters, and there will be fun — and free — activities for all ages from groups such as Fall River Arts and Culture Coalition, Fall River Arts Project, The Children’s Museum of Greater Fall River, Fall River Pride Committee, Little Monsters Games, The Trustees Mobile Adventure Van, Tony Medeiros Entertainment, and the City of Fall River.

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Will there be food?

You came, you danced, you shopped. Now you're feeling hungry. Good news: there will be plenty of food trucks on site where you can grab a bite.

Sample food and beverages from Dorothy Cox Chocolates & Ice Cream, Del’s Lemonade, Green Jar Cocina, Mario’s Lebanese Bakery, Pop’s Mobile Brick Oven Pizza, JA Patty, Sour Mouth Lemonade, What’s Up Cupcake and The Friendly Fizz.

For the older crowd, there will be a 21-plus beverage area with wine, sangria, and locally crafted beer available for purchase from Fall River's Party with Primo and Canned Heat Craft Beer.

3rd Fridays kicks off at The Gates of the City in Fall River on Friday, July 21, from 4 to 8 p.m.
3rd Fridays kicks off at The Gates of the City in Fall River on Friday, July 21, from 4 to 8 p.m.

Who will we find at the Maker's Market?

Looking for a unique gift to treat yourself or a friend? You're bound to find something special amid the 30-plus local artisans showcasing their craft at Friday's event. This week's vendor lineup, which is subject to change, includes The Glitter Witch, Little Miss Art, JD Craft & Design, The Merch and Stuff, Hang On Design, Tats_For_thought, Helian.Tides, Pet Wants Newport, Courtney's Bath and Body Creations, Bubbly Babies, Katherine Paige Design, Crochet Mum’s Corner, These Two, Brianna Santo Art & Design, Spoonful of Sparkles, In Stitches Canvas, Crazy fun creations, The Kitchen Witch, Janet Lourenco Art, Violet Sensibilities, AJ: Spiritual Intuitive, Psychic Artist, Life With Rainbows, Wagglebee, Ani Ron Treasures, Wood 'N Roses LLC, Grandpas Wood Designs, EvileyebyMaria, Boyd Studios LLC, SLJ Jewelry, and Paixao by Xtina.

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Is there a cost to attend?

No! Guests can enjoy free family-friendly activities and live entertainment. But bring some money if you plan on hitting the food trucks, beverage area, or shopping the Maker's Market.

Where can we park?

Free parking will be available at 85 Anawan St., in the lot behind The Narrows Center for the Arts. Also, you can find spots along Ferry and Columbia streets. Approved parking lots will be marked by signage and will have an attendant.

Keep up to date

Check vivafallriver.com or the series’ Facebook event page, at https://www.facebook.com/events/1968711000171773/1968711010171772/ for more deatils on performers, vendors, and participants at each event.

This article originally appeared on The Herald News: 3rd Fridays series launches at Fall River's Gates of the City July 21