Crowd density, dancing, delights all on a First Friday night; ‘George, Streetfest’ Videocast, Photo Gallery

Written by Hollie Stark
June 6, 2015

ST. GEORGE – After months of anticipation the first ever “George, Streetfest on Main” took over historic downtown St. George Friday evening filling the air with with the tantalizing smells of delicious food truck fare and the sounds of live music, conversation and giggling children.

The Academy performs at George First Friday Streetfest, St. George, Utah, June 5, 2015 | Photo by Hollie Reina, St. George News
The Academy performs at George First Friday Streetfest, St. George, Utah, June 5, 2015 | Photo by Hollie Reina, St. George News

The fest, which was billed as “history in the making for St. George,” almost failed to get off the ground as a late spring storm threatened rain, wind and even lightning, but the rain that did fall cleared up shortly after festivities began and the sky was graced by a beautiful rainbow.

“It got off to a rocky start,” Councilwoman Michelle Randall said, adding that as things cleared up the crowds came out and descended on Main Street.

“It got people downtown,” Randall said, “which is the whole idea.”

First Friday attracted a large and varied crowd who gathered with friends and family to particpate in the historical event.

“It’s fun, there is a big turnout,” George Streetfest goer Tanya Smith said.

Smith said that there were lots of really cute things but wished there had been even more vendors and wondered if some of them had been scared away by the rain. But, she said, she would be back next time with her kids.

Artist crafted "George" jewelry is sold at George First Friday Streetfest, St. George, Utah, June 5, 2015 | Photo by Hollie Reina, St. George News
Artist crafted “George” jewelry is sold at George First Friday Streetfest, St. George, Utah, June 5, 2015 | Photo by Hollie Reina, St. George News

The night was full of excitement for people young and old with children’s games, shopping, dining, dancing and adult beverages.

Squatty Potty did a fly by and dropped candy from the sky to the delight of the crowd and St. George Mayor Jon Pike was spotted dancing the night away.

One of the most popular stops of the evening was the jazz garden located in Ancestor Square where a sea of people gathered for jazz music and spirits in a cool and inviting atmosphere.

The George First Friday Streetfest is set to take place on the first Friday of every month.

St. George News videographer Sheldon Demke contributed the videocast for this report.

Click on photo to enlarge it, then use your left-right arrow keys to cycle through the gallery. 

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Copyright St. George News, SaintGeorgeUtah.com LLC, 2015, all rights reserved.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Hollie Stark is a writer, outdoor enthusiast, mother, and Southern Utah gal.

Email: [email protected]
Twitter: @STGNews

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3 Comments

  • Hunter June 6, 2015 at 12:19 pm

    Come on guys…jazz garden where people enjoyed “spirits??” Let’s call it what it was…an old fashioned beer (and wine) garden loaded with people (since there were no spirits available).

    • NotSoFast June 6, 2015 at 2:13 pm

      Sounds like you were in the wrong area Hunter. hic

      • Hunter June 6, 2015 at 3:37 pm

        Nope…I was right there! My point is, the euphemisms only perpetuate the scaredy cat culture around here as it relates to alcohol. It was a BEER garden, not a jazz garden, and it was packed, which should be an indication to those watching the bottom line that giving people responsible options can help in the ol’ revenue department. Maybe then, we won’t get corralled behind a “sinner” fence and forced to pay for appetizers that nobody cares to eat (and incidentally, I’ve read the city code and can’t find anything saying that the appetizers are required for a special event permit).

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