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FRIDAY EVENTS BRING
NEW ENERGY TO
DOWNTOWN BUSINESSES
A grassroots effort to promote downtown Greenwood and
Franklin has sparked excitement among local businesses
and residents alike. With the launch of First Fridays in
Franklin and Final Fridays in Greenwood, these monthly
events are attracting crowds, boosting local commerce, and
transforming both communities’ downtown life.
The idea for these initiatives stemmed from a visit by
destination expert Roger Brooks, who was brought in by
Festival Country Indiana in 2023. Brooks has helped more
than 2,500 communities with initiatives like these.
“He found our downtowns could bene昀椀t from three things:
having businesses stay open later, having more days of
programming like live music, and beautifying the blocks
even more,” said Ken Kosky, Executive Director of Festival
Country Indiana. “Final Fridays and First Fridays could
accomplish all three goals at once.”
With funding support from Festival Country Indiana,
Discover Downtown Franklin launched First Fridays in spring
2024, followed by Greenwood’s Final Fridays later that
summer. Both programs saw immediate success.
“Discover Downtown Franklin did a business owner survey
that found 75 percent of businesses agreed it brought more
foot traf昀椀c to their business, 80.5 percent had a positive
experience, and 80.6 percent said they would participate
again,” Kosky said.
For local businesses, the impact has been promising.
“Final Fridays have had a positive impact by increasing
visibility, driving sales, and fostering stronger connections
between businesses and the community,” said Megan
Yeagy, a representative from Restore Old Town Greenwood.
“While some months have seen higher attendance than
others, the overall response from both residents and
businesses has been encouraging.”
Phil Rodenbeck, Owner of Visitor Watch Co., echoed the
sentiment.
“It’s not going to change instantly, but it’s headed in the
right direction,” he said. “Businesses can get creative and
give residents new reasons to pop in. Visitor, for example,
turned one of our showroom walls into a rotating gallery
space for local artists.”
Looking ahead to 2026, Festival Country Indiana is
committed to continuing its support.
“Programs like First Fridays and Final Fridays need
commitment over the long haul,” Kosky said. “We’re also
working to bring more art to the downtowns and hopefully
create public gathering spaces where people can play corn
hole or try curling in the winter.”
Meanwhile, organizers in both communities are exploring
ways to expand and re昀椀ne the events. For now, business
owners and community leaders are urging residents to
show their support.
“The best way residents can support Final Fridays is simple:
show up and support local businesses,” Yeagy said. “Even
if you can’t make it on a Friday, we encourage everyone
to shop, dine, and engage with these small businesses
throughout the month.”
Designated as an “A” District by the Indiana Department of Educa琀椀on.
CLASSES WE OFFER:
• Baby Let’s Dance
• Mommy & Me
• Ballet
• Pointe
• Lyrical
• Floor Gymnastics
• Jazz
• Tap
• Hip Hop
• Special Needs
• Combo Classes
• Show Choir
• Birthday Party Rental
lerosedanceoffice@gmail.com | (317) 738-2188
717 Commerce Drive | Franklin, IN
The mission of Greenwood Community Schools
Is to continuously improve the system of teaching
And learning that results in increased
achievement in all students.
Proudly Accepting Out of District Transfer Students.
Learn more at www.gws.k12.in.us
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ASPIRE JOHNSON COUNTY, IN | 2025-26 BUSINESS GUIDE
