Third Thursday to debut this week

A quiet place of respite just steps from all the activity can be found in the alley-way between Comerica Bank and Dance With Heart studio.

Are you ready to get out of the house and safely interact with your friends and neighbors? Well, there is some great news for you!

This Thursday, July 16, despite no Third Thursday in July Chicken Broil, there will be a "Third Thursday" event--the first of this season--from 5 to 9 pm on Adrian Street. Local restaurants and shops, as well as vendors and other events, will help make this a special evening indeed for Manchester residents and guests.

Here are some of the activities that will take place: Live music by Night Train, with outdoor seating and shade; art vendors; a petting zoo; hayrides from 6 to 8 pm, and street food at local restaurants. In addition, tours will be conducted at the Manchester Blacksmith Shop, 324 E. Main, and the Manchester Historical Society Museum at the KJ House, 302 E. Main.

Masks are required for all indoor events, including museum and blacksmith shop tours. Physical distancing and masks are encouraged for all activities.

Conditions allowing, a second Third Thursday event will be planned for September 17. Stay tuned for updates!

If you are an art or home business vendor, there is still time to contact Sue LaRocque, for more information at riverraisinantiques@gmail.com. Up to 15 vendors can be accommodated safely--first come, first served.

In addition, if your service group would like to make and sell popcorn, cotton candy, lemonade, or other items as a fund-raiser, you would be welcomed! Contact Sue LaRocque to make arrangements.

For as little as $1 a month, you can keep Manchester-focused news coverage alive.

by Marsha Chartrand

Marsha Johnson Chartrand, a founder, writer, and copy editor with the Manchester Mirror, is a 50-year resident of Manchester. She has a long history of volunteer and community involvement.