First Fridays to be a special night in Toms River…

TOMS RIVER, NJ, August 18- The first Friday of each month will be a special experience for families, couples, and individuals of all ages in the central business district here starting Sept. 3 with the inaugural First Friday Toms River offered by the Toms River Business Improvement District (TRBID).

Celebrate First Friday Toms River at the kick off event Friday September 3, 2004 from 5:00 to 9:00pm rain or shine, in downtown Toms River, NJ.

Remember when Friday night meant family night, or date night? Or it meant finding something fun and inexpensive to do. First Friday Toms River is a perfect solution of what to do on a Friday evening. The idea is simple. The first Friday of every month, beginning September 3, businesses and cultural groups within the central business district will join together to provide a variety of entertainment and activities at their locations. The activities will be provided from 5 pm to 9 pm, enabling people to experience their hometown downtown in a new way.

As a special feature, the September 3rd First Friday Toms River will feature Parkway Joe and the Tokens in a free concert in Huddy Park from 5:30 – 7:00pm. Attendees should bring their own chairs or blankets. Free inflatable kids’ rides will be provided by Inflatable Adventures in the Robbins Parkway parking lot next to Huddy Park.

Street performers such as musicians, balloonists, face painters and more will stroll the downtown area. In addition, free activities and added entertainment at area businesses, dining specials and treats at area restaurants, demonstrations at galleries and special offers at retailers. Free parking is available after 5 pm through a cooperative agreement between the Dover Township Parking Authority and the TRBID.

“Our downtown events have all seen tremendous growth this year, suggesting that more and more people are enjoying our central business district,” reported Frank Capone, Chairman of the of the (TRBID). “First Friday Toms River is yet another way to re-introduce people to the center of their own community,” he added. Activities and the schedule will vary each month in coordination with the seasons and holidays.

For the latest details on First Friday, including a schedule and map, visit the First Friday web page at www.DowntownTomsRiver.com or call 732-341-8738. Look for upcoming First Fridays on Oct. 1, November 5, December 3, and January 2, 2005.