From Great Bend Chamber of Commerce...
The energy was high in downtown Great Bend on Friday, April 25, as the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce held a celebratory Ribbon Cutting to commemorate the 5-Year Anniversary of Great Bend Alive, the downtown arm of Great Bend Economic Development. The event also marked the official launch of the 2025 Fridays on Forest season, a beloved community series bringing food, fun, music, and fellowship to Forest Avenue on the last Friday of each month, April through October.
Despite brisk temperatures, the community showed up in force, with more than 430 attendees bundling up to enjoy the kickoff event. Guests were treated to a vibrant evening filled with local food vendors, drinks, and live music, all in a family-friendly atmosphere. The April event was made possible by event sponsor SOFTwarfare, and the Chamber’s Ribbon Cutting added a festive moment to celebrate the ongoing revitalization of downtown Great Bend.
Fridays on Forest has grown into a signature downtown tradition, thanks to the support of local businesses, volunteers, and residents. The event series will continue throughout the summer and fall with extended hours from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM, featuring rotating food and drink vendors, live entertainment, and themed nights.
The next event, Bat Cats Night, is scheduled for Friday, May 30th and will feature appearances by the Great Bend Bat Cats baseball team, live music from Artifact, and crowd-favorite vendors including Freaking Delicious Cheesecake Co., Lana’s Catering and Goodies, Lumpy’s, Dry Lake Brewing, and more.
In addition to community celebrations, Great Bend Alive is proud to announce its 2025 accreditation from Main Street America, a recognition of excellence in revitalizing and preserving the heart of the city.
For more information about the Fridays on Forest series or to find out how to get involved, visit gbedinc.com/downtownevents or follow Great Bend Alive on social media.