Hundreds celebrate another First Friday

Shafter held its First Friday event on Sept. 6, attracting hundreds of residents downtown. Despite the heat, the crowd was enthusiastic and enjoyed a variety of offerings at the event.

There was plenty of food, activities and entertainment for all ages.

The Shafter Recreation Department had a booth that offered a variety of activities for the kids, including sitdown scooters, as well as having a line-dance session that let residents have fun on a big dance floor.

City workers were on hand signing residents up for their new red alert system that notifies residents of a variety of happenings in the city..

There was plenty of entertainment as well, with live music at the gazebo area downtown. Originally the brainchild of Mayor Chad Givens, the First Friday events have continued to provide residents with a safe, fun way to spend a night out without having to go out of town to do it.

For car enthusiasts, there was a large collection of classic cars on display, from hot rods, to antique classics.

"You can see by the crowds that there are so many families here – and families is what these events are about," Givens said, noting that even though the weather has been a lot hotter this year, the attendance and enthusiasm still has been great.

Plenty of attendees said that the events are a welcome addition to the calendar. "These First Friday things are just fantastic," said Esmerelda Munoz, who was there with her two grandchildren. "It is nice to have something to do in town for the kids."

Givens said that the next event will be held in October on East Ash, near the former Modified Correctional Facility site. It will include a Trunk or Treat, a Scary House for the kids, and other fun family activities.