Great Bend Alive, the downtown arm of Great Bend Economic Development (GBED), announced the Fridays on Forest season opener on April 25. The kickoff event will take place on Forest Avenue, from Williams to Main Street.
Lee Ann June, GBED Communications Director, shared her enthusiasm for the upcoming season:
"Fridays on Forest continues to create a space for both locals and visitors to unwind, connect, and enjoy the lively downtown atmosphere with live music, great food, and refreshing beverages. We’re thrilled to launch the fifth season of this beloved community tradition in downtown GBK.”
The kickoff event will feature live music from Tim Anthony & the Anamals and a lineup of food vendors, including Lumpy’s, Los Dos Portillo’s, Brand 17 BBQ, Lana’s Catering & Goodies, and Flatlanders Stone-fired Pizzas behind Dry Lake Brewing. Gambino’s is joining the festivities this year, offering a pizza buffet from 5-7 p.m. on Fridays on Forest nights.
With the addition of The Landing, located at the corner of Williams and Forest, attendees can grab a fresh coffee from the Avast Ye Java Coffee trailer or indulge in a Freaking Delicious Cheesecake. Alcohol will be available from licensed vendors, including Los Dos Portillo’s, Lumpy’s, Charlie’s Place, and Dry Lake Brewing.
Ribbon Cutting & Event Sponsorship
This year’s first sponsor, SOFTwarfare, is a new member of the Great Bend business community and will support the Fridays on Forest season.
To celebrate the start of the new season, join Great Bend Alive, SOFTwarfare, and the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce for a special ribbon-cutting ceremony at 5 p.m. at the corner of Williams and Forest.
Important Event Guidelines
· Alcohol can be purchased within the district but may not be brought in from outside or taken outside the designated area.
· Fridays on Forest is a family-friendly event—bring the whole crew.
· Security will be on-site to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all attendees.
· Restrooms will be available—so no need to worry.
· No smoking or pets are allowed within the district.
Join Us for Another Great Season!
Great Bend Alive is excited to bring another season of Fridays on Forest, featuring new additions alongside the amenities and traditions the community has come to love. Mark your calendar for the last Friday of each month from April through October for all Fridays on Forest events. Find a list of all the Fridays on Forest dates online at www.gbedinc.com/downtownevents.
Sponsorship & Partnership Opportunities
Many sponsorships and partnerships are already in place, but if you, your business, or your organization would like to get involved, please reach out to GBED staff at 620-796-2407 or [email protected]. Another way to stay informed is to follow Great Bend Economic Development and Great Bend Alive on social media.