Downtown Elizabethton is set to come alive once again as the First Friday summer series returns on Thursday, May 1 from 5 to 8 p.m. Community members and visitors are invited to experience an evening filled with live entertainment, family-friendly activities, local shopping, dining, and interactive experiences throughout the historic downtown district.The kickoff event, themed “Adventure Vibes,” will set the tone for the summer series with engaging activities and opportunities to explore all that downtown has to offer. Guests can pick up a First Friday BINGO card from Gold Sponsor Elizabethton Federal Savings Bank and participate in activities throughout downtown for a chance to win prizes and downtown gift cards.The event will feature four interactive zones across downtown:
Mobile Food Rally | Crossroads Craftworks
From 5 to 8 p.m., guests can enjoy a variety of food vendors including:
- Blue Crab Bites
- J&D Snack Shack
- Taco 51
- Tin Can Diner
Play Yard | Armed Forces Drive
This free family-friendly area will include:
- Traveling Bear Mini Golf
- Yard games courtesy of Elizabethton Library Adult Programs
- An activity table hosted by Elizabethton Federal Savings Bank
Social Garden | Post Office Street
Visitors can enjoy community engagement activities hosted by:
- Doe River Gorge Ministries
- First Christian Church of Elizabethton
- Yoga Farm
- Covered Bridge Creamery Float Bar
- Disc golf activities courtesy of Hellbender Outfitters and Riverside Taphouse
Market in the Park | Covered Bridge Park
The Elizabethton Farmer’s Market will host a special pop-up market featuring eight vendors offering:
- Fresh seasonal produce
- USDA meats
- Sourdough breads
- Jams and jellies
- Artisan soaps
- Goat dairy products
- Pottery
- Coffee beans
Live entertainment will also be featured throughout the downtown district, including performances by:
- Bratfolk at Crossroads Craftworks
- Jazz Daddies and Dillon the Magician
- Preston Benfield at Jiggy Ray’s Downtown Pizzeria
- Just Chuck at Covered Bridge Creamery
More than 35 downtown businesses will participate in the event with extended hours, special promotions, shopping opportunities, dining experiences, and activities. Participating businesses include boutiques, restaurants, entertainment venues, antique stores, specialty shops, and local attractions throughout downtown.Sponsors for the 2026 First Friday series include:
- Gold Sponsor: Elizabethton Federal Savings Bank
- Silver Sponsors: Citizens Bank, Northeast Community Credit Union, and Tour Carter County
- Bronze Sponsor for May: Cross Engineering
The First Friday summer series will continue throughout the season, offering opportunities for community connection, live entertainment, elevated shopping and dining, and family-friendly fun in historic downtown Elizabethton.Community members are encouraged to mark their calendars and join the celebration on May 1 for an evening of adventure, entertainment, and downtown exploration.
