The Magnolia will host its second “First Friday” event on Friday, July 3rd, as organizers continue working to establish the venue as a destination for community gatherings, business networking and local commerce.
Ryan Watley said the monthly event is designed to increase traffic to the Magnolia and Simmons Bank Park while giving residents and visitors an opportunity to support local vendors.
This Friday’s event will feature a “Best White Attire” theme to help celebrate the Independence Day weekend.
The event will take place from 7 to 11 p.m. and will feature food, drinks and music from two DJs.
Admission is free, allowing attendees to spend directly with participating vendors while enjoying the holiday atmosphere.
Organizers encourage residents and visitors to attend, support local vendors and kick off the Independence Day weekend in a family-friendly environment.
Watley said organizers were encouraged by the turnout at the inaugural First Friday event in June.
While the Magnolia has hosted concerts, block parties and other community events over the past year, he said many residents are still discovering the venue for the first time.
In addition to hosting concerts and block parties, the venue recently welcomed a local football team for summer workouts.
He said Magnolia staff partnered with area businesses to provide meals for the coaches, staff and players over a three-day period, highlighting the venue’s role as a gathering place for the community.
Despite those events, Watley said many residents are still discovering the Magnolia for the first time.
Organizers hope recurring events like First Friday will continue to introduce new visitors to the venue.
The Magnolia is approaching its one-year anniversary in August, and Watley said the project is already beginning to achieve one of its original goals—helping small businesses grow into permanent locations.
One example is Mexico Lindo, which recently purchased a brick-and-mortar building after previously operating three food trucks at the Magnolia.
The restaurant is currently renovating its new location, and Watley said another Latino restaurant is expected to take its place at the Magnolia in August.
Watley said organizers will continue hosting events like First Friday to attract visitors, introduce more people to the venue and create opportunities for local businesses to succeed.
He added that maintaining consistent events and operating hours remains an important part of the Magnolia’s continued growth.
In addition to discussing the Magnolia, Watley also announced he has been appointed to serve as a trustee for SEARK College.
He said he has not yet been sworn into the position but expects to complete that process in the coming weeks.
Watley said he was contacted about the opportunity to serve before accepting the appointment.
He expressed gratitude to Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders for the appointment and said he looks forward to serving on the university’s board.
