The Last Hurrah: Downtown Morgantown Says Goodbye to a Beloved Tradition (For Now!)

Alright, listen up, Morgantown, because this is a big one. You know how much we love our downtown, especially when it comes alive with art and community. Well, mark your calendars for Friday, December 1st, because something truly special—and just a little bit bittersweet—is happening: it's the very last combined Arts Walk and First Friday event.

Yes, you read that right. From 6 to 9 p.m., our charming downtown will host one final collaborative evening, a sort of grand send-off to a tradition that, honestly, has brought so much vibrancy to our streets. It’s organized, as ever, by the wonderful folks at Main Street Morgantown in tandem with Arts Monongahela, and they're really pulling out all the stops for this one, you could say.

Think about it: it’s the perfect kickoff to the holiday season, a chance to mingle, discover, and truly soak in the local creative spirit before the chill really sets in. Shops will be staying open later than usual, offering special deals that are just perfect for snagging unique gifts (or maybe a little something for yourself, we won't tell!). And of course, there’ll be plenty of fantastic food and drink flowing, because what's a celebration without a good bite and a warm mug?

But the real heart of the evening, as always, is the art. Oh, the art! You'll find it dotted all over the downtown landscape, gracing galleries, cafes, and even some unexpected corners. Just imagine wandering into The Old Stone House to take in Robert Allen's work, or perhaps stopping by Taziki's Mediterranean Cafe to see what Lauren Griffith has been creating. There's Justin Miller’s artistry awaiting at Forks of Cheat Winery, and Elinore Cotton — who, incidentally, will also be blessing us with some live tunes at Table 9 — showcasing her unique vision there as well. And you certainly wouldn't want to miss Jamie Salek at The Grind or Jessica Stewart's pieces at the Morgantown Public Library. It's a genuine feast for the eyes, wouldn't you agree?

And speaking of tunes, the Morgantown High School Band will be adding their spirited sounds to the mix right outside Main Street Morgantown itself. It's moments like these, with local talent shining brightly, that really make our community feel connected, doesn't it?

Now, I know what you’re probably thinking: why is this the last one? Well, starting in 2024, the First Friday events will continue, focusing a bit more broadly on downtown businesses and entertainment, which is still fantastic, mind you. But the dedicated Arts Walk aspect, the one that Arts Monongahela so beautifully curates, will transition into its own separate series of events. So, this December 1st gathering is truly the grand finale of this particular collaboration, a chance to experience the magic one last time before things evolve.

So, come on down, Morgantown. Let's make this final joint Arts Walk and First Friday one for the memory books. Support our artists, our local businesses, and just take a moment to enjoy the vibrant, living heart of our city. Because, in truth, these are the moments that truly make Morgantown, well, Morgantown.