Return of First Friday to feature cosplay costumes

ASHLAND, Ky. — Downtown Ashland’s First Friday events return this week with a superhero theme.

In addition to live music, a car show and children’s activities, there will be a cosplay event at 6:30 p.m. on the Town Square Bank Stage. Cash prizes will be awarded to first, second and third place winners. First place winner will receive $200; second place prize is $100; and third place winner will receive $50.

“This year’s First Friday season is exciting because there are more opportunities for community engagement this year than ever before. In addition to live music and the classic car show, First Friday will also feature more programming for children, creative workshops, and a reward incentive for shopping local,” said Ashland in Motion executive director Whitney Lowe.

Most of the First Friday events run from 5-9 p.m. along Winchester Avenue.

For the kids, the First Presbyterian Church will have superhero cape making, face painting, popular tech gadgets Ozobot and Sphero, and well as Big Blue Blocks designed for toddler play. Superhero cape making is free and limited to the first 50 children.

Recording artist Rob McNurlin will perform live at the intersection of 15th Street and Winchester Avenue, will feature live music by Rob McNurlin.

If it rains, the concert will be relocated to the Highlands Museum & Discovery Center.

Local artists Scott Kearns and Billy Tackett will have their works displayed inside the Camayo Arcade.

Kearns is a local resident and lifelong artist who specializes in portrait, landscape, and abstract painting and drawing.

Tackett is a fine and commercial artist whose work has been featured as published illustrations, on book covers, and other commercial art outlets. He specializes in a “splatter” technique, using his fingertips in lieu of a paintbrush. Tackett will create a live painting on-site during the event.

Classic cars will also be on display. Cars may begin parking at 3 p.m. in the designated event area. Classic Car Show participants are asked to make a $5 donation in support of non-profit organizations.