First Fridays’ FIRE AND ICE Brings Down the House at Palmer Arena

Danville’s opening First Fridays event of 2023 took place at the David S Palmer Arena, and FIRE AND ICE, as it was named, brought out a massive crowd.  The public was told to enter through the public skating door on Main Street, and they did.  But it took a while to get through a very long line.  Mayor Rickey Williams, Jr certainly noticed.

AUDIO: I was really exited because when I pulled up we had a line all the way back from the ice entrance to the corner of Walnut and Main Street.  It’s just great to see so many people coming out, having fun; fellowshipping together in a safe environment.

As some families headed for ice skating and others headed for face painting or some of the amazing crafts and treats on hand, Vermilion Advantage Chamber Director Nicole Van Hyfte was working the prize table.  She said it seemed to be a brand new era for First Fridays.

AUDIO: I wasn’t sure what was going to happen, because people are used to coming downtown.  But, what an amazing turnout!  It’s been so cool to see kids and families come through here, and they’re just enjoying themselves and smiling, and it’s in January!  Just to give a reason for kids and families to smile, it’s everything.  And we’re just so happy to be able to do this in Vermilion County.

For Danville Community Relations Administrator Ashton Greer, who’s been the main engine for First Fridays events; taking the whole thing inside at the Palmer Arena was something new.  But she said there’s a good chance they’ll do it again, and getting the word out to the schools certainly helps.

AUDIO: We always take flyers to the whole district, District 118; every school gets them.  Our social media marketing; we’ve been on the radio.  Clearly the word got out, because the crowd here is huge.  I think every time you do an event for the first time, you figure out what kinks you might need to work out.  I’m looking around tonight, and I’m thinking I have some ideas.  But I think that this is a huge hit, so we’ll probably repeat it.

Don’t forget that reservations are already being taken for the February 3rd First Fridays event, the Folklore Progressive Dinner:  https://vermilioncountyfirst.com/2023/01/05/reservations-being-taken-for-feb-first-fridays-event-folklore-progressive-dinner/