GREAT BEND ENTERTAINMENT DISTRICT
"It's placemaking, not place made!
It's a process that is never finished."
Great Bend Alive, the downtown arm of Great Bend Economic Development (GBED) is excited to announce the upcoming Fridays on Forest Kick-Off on April 26, 2024. The event will take place on Forest Avenue, from Williams to Main. Lee Ann June, GBED Communications Director said, “Fridays on Forest creates the perfect 'third place' for both locals and visitors alike to unwind, connect, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, alongside live music, fun food, and beverages. We're delighted to begin another season of community bonding in downtown GBK.” The kickoff will feature music from Tim Anthony & the Animals, food vendors from Lumpy’s, Los Dos Portillo’s, Brand 17 BBQ, and Lana's Catering and Goodies, plus our alcohol vendors, Los Dos Portillo’s, Lumpy’s, Charlie’s Place, and Dry Lake Brewing.
Great Bend Alive is looking forward to another great season of Fridays on Forest with a few new additions and many amenities Great Bend has gotten used to having in the entertainment district. Mark your calendar for the last Friday of each month between April and October for all the Fridays on Forest events. Many sponsorships and partnerships are already in place but if you, your business, or your organization would like to get involved, please reach out to GBED staff at 620-796-2407 or marketing@gbedinc.com. Another way to stay informed is to follow Great Bend Economic Development and Great Bend Alive on social media.
Share your pictures on social media with the hashtag: #GBAlive, or email them to marketing@gbedinc.com, so we can share your love for #DowntownGBK.
What to expect?
Come after work with your friends, family or coworkers and sit outside with a beverage in your hand and enjoy some great food, great music, and a great time!
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Alcohol will be served in the district, but CANNOT be brought into the district from outside.
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No alcohol can leave the district.
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This is a family atmosphere, feel free to bring the whole gang!
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There will be security to ensure the safety of you and our properties.
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Worried about bathrooms?! Don't be, we've got you covered!
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Bring your appetite - you'll have plenty to choose from!
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No smoking or pets allowed in the district.
2024 Coming Soon!
Check out Great Bend Alive on @instagram, Facebook, and TikTok! Follow us for details on the 2023 season.
Check out Great Bend Alive's newest
Placemaking project!
Community art is a way to connect the community and provide a sense of pride about where one lives. This project is a big undertaking could not be accomplished without several fantastic stakeholders.
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The Great Bend City Council for approving this plan
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Barton Arts Movement for partnering in this event
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Melanie Ryan for lending her phenomenal artistic abilities
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And our sponsors and donors for making this project financially possible! Wheatland Electric, Great Bend Foundation, Barton Community College, Sheryl Cheely, MPIRE Realty Group, Spectrum CPA Partners LLC, Brentwood Builders, Dedra Goodenough, Alan & Gail Moeder, Jane Isern, Rachel Mawhirther, and Jennifer Stoddard
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Does the project end here? No! Watching positive comments roll in on social media brought us so much joy and we want to keep the positivity flowing! Tag your photos from Final Friday and on the Art Alley with #GreatBendisAlive or text your photos to 620-617-0332.
WHAT'S NEXT?
This is just the beginning! We can't wait to bring you this entertainment district, but know there are more amenities/aesthetics coming - we're working hard to bring you the best atmosphere!
CHECK IT OUT!
Come walk through an event with Chad Ehrlich and Sara Arnberger to see what you can experience at our next event!
FOLLOW US!
Great Bend Alive shares pictures, fun facts about downtown, and videos on social media. Join us as we celebrate the journey!
