HARRISONBURG, Va. (WHSV) – First Fridays of the Valley showcases local artists through a chain of Harrisonburg businesses. On the first Friday of each month, visual and performing artists are highlighted at participating venues.

The program has existed since 2009 and was revamped in 2012 by the Arts Council of the Valley. Initially, there were just a handful of businesses participating a few months a year. Now, the program is a “full-year community event” with over forty venues. While a majority of the businesses are in Harrisonburg, it has started to expand to Bridgewater and McGaheysville.

“The community will go around to the different venues, and they enjoy the art as well but they’re also eating in the restaurants and shopping in the retail shops,” said Jenny Burden, executive director of the Arts Council of the Valley. “It’s great for business, but it’s also great for community members because they get to meet the artists and talk about their art.”

The program has showcased a range of artists across various mediums, from full-time artists to students to city employees.

“We are so rich with visual as well as performing artists,” said Burden. “I think it’s the friendly nature of the area … it draws people and artists,” said Burden.

The visual art from March 1st will remain on display at participating locations until the end of the month. The next round of First Friday events will be April 5th from 5p.m. to 7p.m.

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