2020 was a letdown for a lot of event planners and the ongoing Third Thursday street festival in downtown Benton was no different. But 2021 is a new season and the first date for celebrating downtown is March 18th, with title sponsor Everett Chevrolet and junior sponsor Malvern National Bank.
Jennifer Donnor, President of the Downtown Benton Business Partnership said this was initially planned as a “light” event, but since the Arkansas Department of Health relaxed requirements, they are bringing back almost everything they did in 2019.
“We submitted [the event plan] for ADH approval last week,” said Jennifer, “But with the Governor’s change last week, they responded saying approval was no longer required.”
After finding out there wouldn’t be restrictions, Benton Mayor Tom Farmer said the effect could expand. Jennifer detailed several things going on at Main Street, Sevier Street and the alley off Sevier Street. There will be a beer garden, live music from Just Sayin’, food trucks with tables and chairs and a baggo tournament. They’ll also have inflatable games in the kid zone and vendor booths set up. Shops will be open until 8 p.m. and there will also be specials and giveaways.
Watch for Leprechauns too! The mayor, city council and some students will be dressed up for St. Patrick’s Day.
There is still a mask mandate in place by the State until at least March 31st, due to Covid-19. So bring a mask and expect to wear it in shops, and also if you can’t be 6 feet away from other attendees while in the streets and at the Farmers Market.
We’ll update this story as there are more details, but the bottom line is that downtown Benton is the place to be on March 18th, 6-9 p.m.
You can also follow the Downtown Benton Third Thursday Facebook page.
Here are some pics from a previous year:
