Heather Ainsley
ECB Publishing, Inc.
For many small communities (and even some large ones), one day out of every month is designated for specific community events. This day usually falls upon a catchy, easily identified day such as “first Friday,” “second Saturday,” or “third Thursday.” On these days, the community comes together, usually at the beckoning of a local organization or group, and enjoys festivities that showcase the community as a whole. Local cities that neighbor Monticello regularly participate in their own versions, with Tallahassee enjoying “First Fridays” in the Railroad Square Art District as a way to celebrate and encourage the rich local artist community. On the first Friday of every month, rain or shine, local galleries, small businesses and local art vendors create a miniature festival celebrating the local art scene with live music, unique shopping opportunities and great food.
Similarly, nearby Thomasville also hosts a monthly First Friday community event, called First Friday Sip and Stroll, where local residents and visitors passing through can walk down the downtown streets of beautiful Thomasville, enjoying a live concert from local musicians, local shops, restaurants, and the ability to stroll around the scenic streets sipping beer or wine purchased at local businesses. In addition, a collective of local artists gather in the downtown area, displaying and selling their artwork.
Previously, Monticello, despite having a plethora of unique boutiques, shops, restaurants and talented artists, has not had a regular monthly community event. Until now.
Local businesses in the heart of Historical Downtown Monticello have partnered together to form the Monticello Merchants Association, and have pioneered the first of many Second Saturday Sip and Shop events!
The first Second Saturday event will be held on Saturday, Feb. 11, from 5 p.m. until 8 p.m., and will include a Valentines Day theme! Any and all are welcome to come out and enjoy a chance to sip, shop, eat, sing, explore and enjoy all the best that Monticello has to offer.
Two Sisters New Beginnings, CowHaus Coffee Company, Penny Lane Emporium, Dogwood Market, Soulshine Boutique, Vintage Treasures, Antiques & Xtras, Flossie Mae's Boutique, Wag the Dog, Crazy Horse, Rust & Rose, ForeveRetro and Taylor Massage will be open for extended business hours. Any businesses not mentioned are welcome and encouraged to also enjoy extended hours and join in on the community festivities!
Taylor Massage will be giving chair massages at CowHaus. There will be food available by Monticello BBQ, karaoke fun at CowHaus, and more!
This event is open to the public, and is always family friendly!
This event will be an excellent opportunity to showcase the best and brightest that Monticello has to offer in the ways of shopping, dining and good old southern hospitality!
Monticello's Second Saturday Sip and Shop events will be held every month on the second Saturday. Plans are in the works to welcome local, Monticello-based artists, crafters and vendors to the Second Saturday events, as a way to showcase the best our community has to offer! More information regarding vendors will be available at a later date. For questions, please text Ashley Cowen at (850) 591-7955.