GINA VILLANTI
STAFF WRITER
On Oct. 5, First Friday on Fourth was put on in conjunction with the Harmonium Project in downtown Steubenville.
The event featured live music groups, handmade goods, food booths and even a visit from some puppies from the Humane Society. October’s First Friday provided a welcoming environment for friends and families to enjoy a fun night out on the town during Franciscan University’s homecoming weekend.
Locals and newcomers flocked to Fourth Street, and the quaint city of Steubenville did not disappoint. Lights were strung around all of the antique buildings, adding a bit of rustic charm to the street where the festivities were being held.
Stress relief plate smashing, chalk drawing and face painting were some of the activities offered over the course of the evening, along with some interactive songs performed by the bands present. Franciscan students joined the local families and individuals on Fourth Street, giving the event a true family-style feel.
Local music groups performed that evening as part of the Half Hills Music Festival, including one band called Spinning Jenny. Spinning Jenny is a band composed of three sisters and their father, one of whom is a current student at Franciscan. Late in their set, the band sang a medley of songs from the movie “The Greatest Showman,” with one of their little sisters joining as a guest star. It was a crowd favorite, with many audience members dancing around and singing along while cheering the family on.
Another performer was sophomore David Hahn, who said, “Well, I really love seeing the community of Steubenville getting the chance to have such a great time with one another and getting the chance to meet their neighbors. And as a performer, I feel very blessed to get the chance to share my few weird abilities for the enjoyment of my fellows.” Hahn delighted the crowd with his incredible act of juggling fire sticks while on the shoulders of one of his friends.
Freshman Kelly Sliker said, “First Fridays was a lot of fun. I loved having the opportunity to show my out-of-town friends the town of Steubenville.”
First Fridays on Fourth is an event put on to help revitalize and unify the city of Steubenville. It attracts people of all ages and is a joyful, fun and memorable experience for all in attendance. The event is put on the first Friday of every month and begins at 6 p.m. on Fourth Street.