Ian Ruzow Discusses Second Fridays in Lititz, PA

The concept of First Friday started out in the late 1980s as a way for cities all over America to combat the threat of urban decay. By incorporating the safety in numbers mentality, First Fridays started reintroducing people to their beautiful, forgotten, historic districts by spotlighting locations presently perceived as dangerous. The name has since become synonymous with various public events taking place on the first Friday of every month, regardless of the stigma of the location. People see it as the place to be, often planning anticipated visits well in advance.

Despite the moniker, many cities have now adopted the notion of First Friday to their own style, with some using the first Saturday or third Thursday of each month instead. Lititz, PA, the 2013 recipient of the coolest small town in America, has put its own spin on First Friday by choosing the second Friday of each month to showcase its charm. Piggybacking on its neighbor, Lancaster, they carry over the energy from the Lancastrian First Friday by using their own flair, while also promoting other local towns and cities’ own Friday events. Known already for the Lititz farmers’ market that runs every Thursday from mid-May through mid-October, Lititz, PA is also known for its local charm and is a well-known huge supporter of local businesses. This monthly celebration is an extension of all that Lititz stands for. As an added incentive, free parking is also offered on Second Fridays, which is a major perk in this bustling town.

On a recent Friday, in a momentary break from the cool, damp Spring, my wife and a few of my adult children and I went to dine in downtown Lititz. As we approached the center of town, we knew something special was going on. We hadn’t thought that it was second Friday but knew it was when we saw musicians and other performers, a bustling street and people everywhere. It was crowded, but not enough to be difficult to negotiate, rather just the right amount to move freely around and be able to enjoy the sights, smells, sounds and laughter around us. For our children who live in large cities, Second Friday provided the comfort of home and the engagement they are used to.

For four hours on the second Friday of each month, Downtown Lititz becomes the proverbial place to see and be seen. This monthly event has gained popularity over the past three decades by enabling hundreds of visitors and residents to fill the streets and sidewalks in order to experience all the local flavor that Lititz has to offer. Local merchants keep their doors open late, so there is no shortage of food, drink, or entertainment options. Along the sidewalks and on patios, there is also often open-air entertainment in the form of dancers and musicians. Native and regional artists are always highlighted during these events, along with food and beverage deals and an influx of entertainment.

Ian Ruzow is a businessman from Central Pennsylvania. He is most widely known for being a co-founder of Clipper Magazine and now serves as a partner with Oak Tree Development Group of Lititz.