The second Downtown Corry Business Association (DCBA) First Friday event of 2025 is set to transform the downtown area this Friday with its Art Walk, bringing together local artists, entertainers and community members for an evening of creativity and celebration. The event runs from 5 to 9 p.m. throughout the downtown Corry business district.
The event will showcase a diverse array of artistic talent, featuring demonstrations both inside and outside local businesses. Participating artists include the experienced duo Jack and Marian Paluh, Kim Kloecker, Ellen Paquette and members of the Corry Area Artists’ Guild, along with additional artists planning to set up throughout the downtown area.
One of the evening’s major highlights will be the annual Metal Sculpture Art Competition, taking place at the White Butterfly. This competition has become a significant draw for the Art Walk, showcasing both established and emerging metal artists whose work impressed attendees last year.
Entertainment will extend beyond visual arts, with live performances planned throughout the evening. Musical acts include Light Strings and Air, a flute and guitar duo that promises to add what organizers describe as “beautiful ambience” to the evening’s atmosphere, and Brooke Surgener.
For families, the event offers entertainment with two different performers: John Zimmerman, who performs under the moniker “Altered Optics” as an illusionist, and “The Real Magic Steve,” who will be creating balloon art.
Weather permitting, Logan Hunt plans to bring his hot air balloon to the proposed Rails + Trails Park area, where he will inflate it for public viewing, adding another visual element to the evening’s festivities.
The event will also feature amenities that have proven popular in previous First Fridays. Free horse-drawn carriage rides will return, offering visitors a non-walking way to tour the downtown area. Multiple food trucks will be stationed throughout the event, and KC’s Xpress will host a food competition accompanied by a DJ, positioned near its Dawg House food truck.
Local businesses are participating by offering special deals and showcasing their own creative offerings. Glass blower Rich Selfridge, who drew crowds when he demonstrated on the porch of Hiram’s in May, will return to continue his popular demonstrations.
Wendy Neckers, DCBA board chair, expressed her enthusiasm for the upcoming event, emphasizing the celebration of creativity in all its forms.
“This Friday’s First Friday Art Walk is shaping up to be a truly wonderful event,” Neckers said. “It is always one of my favorites, simply because we get to watch creativity be celebrated, in whatever discipline they enjoy — art, music, dance, poetry, writing, etc.
“We have some well-known artists returning and some who are up-and-coming, planning to set up around the downtown,” she continued. “People enjoy watching artists create, and of course, the live musicians add such a beautiful ambience to the evening.”
Neckers highlighted several attractions that make this event particularly special for the community.
“Some of the shops will have artists displaying their work, and the Metal Sculpture Art Competition will be happening,” Neckers added. “Last year, some of the new metal artists were amazing — definitely a highlight.”
She emphasized that local businesses are integral to the event’s success.
“Our restaurants and shops will be showing off their creative flair by doing what they do best,” Neckers added.
The event will also include costumed characters and designated photo opportunity locations, creating memorable experiences for visitors of all ages.
Neckers explained the Art Walk represents the DCBA’s ongoing commitment to revitalizing the downtown area through community events that celebrate local talent while supporting area businesses.
“The combination of visual arts, live entertainment, food offerings and family activities is designed to create an inclusive atmosphere that appeals to residents and visitors alike,” she said.
Neckers concluded with an invitation to the entire community.
“Please come and enjoy the evening with us,” she said.
Attendees are encouraged to explore the various participating locations on North and South Center and East and West Main streets in order to experience the full range of artistic demonstrations, performances and special offerings planned for the evening.