Greencastle's First Friday to sizzle with 'Carnival' theme

GREENCASTLE >> The First Friday tradition continues Aug. 7 with the enticing theme of "Carnival."

Of course, there will be traditional carnival games, from 5 to 8 p.m., such as hoop shots and gone fishing, but there's also much more. The square will be filled with the beautiful voice of Kerensa Grey, who has been called "a dynamic vocalist," singing her way through a variety of jazz, blues, and folk music in her inimitable style.

A winner in 2010 of the 20th annual Billie Holliday Vocal Competition in Baltimore, she has since received high praise and favorable comparison to two other jazz greats — Etta James and Ella Fitzgerald.

At a second venue, there will be more live music from Tim Hellane, a multi-talented musician who not only plays guitar and piano, but also composes, arranges and orchestrates. The owner and instructor at Musician's Quest, a music teaching facility in Hagerstown, Hellane will be positioned beside Traveler's Trunk and Upscale Consignment.

At this location there will also be free children's art activities, and El Sombrero restaurant will provide chips and salsa.

"First Friday in Greencastle is a great way to spend a summer evening. Come out to support the community, eat dinner, and meet with friends," said First Friday committee chair, Marissa Burt.

The evening will be packed with things to do, see, and yes, buy — for example, fresh flowers from Hope Valley Gardens and Make-It,Take-It earrings from the talented hands at Joyful Arts Studio.

Visitors will get an opportunity to become acquainted with the work of local artists who will be exhibiting their work outside storefronts and, for an "old-fashioned" selfie, there will be a photo booth.

A big draw is food and there will be plenty of it: sample beer from John Allison Public House, doughnuts from Hot Damn Doughnuts, chocolate by Nathan Miller, refreshing Rita's Ice and ice cream from Antietam Dairy, a cuppa' from The Write Cup, and sizzling hot dogs prepared by the Rescue Hose Company Junior Membership.

"The downtown Greencastle community continues to grow" said Carol Corwell-Martin, member of the committee. "it is a vital place for all of the residents."

For more information, call 717-597-4610 or visit www.firstfridaygreencastle.com.