Barberton DECA high school students along with the Downtown Barberton businesses have partnered to present Barberton Fourth Friday. Three senior high school students were inspired by their marketing project to partner with the Barberton Arts & Entertainment district to create a marketing plan to inspire growth in the area. The first Fourth Friday event is a result of this project and will take place on Friday, February 26th from 5 pm – 8 pm in Downtown Barberton on Tuscarawas Ave. “The purpose of Barberton Fourth Friday is to show off the businesses and the downtown arts & culture district of Barberton. The night will feature music, art, food and fun!” said Samantha Coldwell, Barberton DECA Advisor. “What I’m looking forward to is seeing this event inspire economic development in this area.” Many of the downtown businesses will be offering specials, discounts, live music, pop-up art galleries and live artists in their businesses. Lake 8 Movies will be hosting a pop-up gallery by artist George Erwin, Block 7 will be hosting Saxy Rob – saxophonist & Joshua Surgeon guitarist & vocalist, ACot will be hosting live painting by Nikki Bartell & music by Zach plus their resident artists will all have their studios open. Additionally, Nine Muses will have a Gallery opening by George Kurka featuring “Alchemy” paintings & The Magical Theater Company will be giving tours of their newly renovated theater & hosting games & improv for kids & adults. “What is great about this event is it is bringing together all the businesses downtown,” said Katie Ebner, Barberton Fourth Friday project lead and high school student. “We helped the downtown businesses form a Merchants Association. It is so awesome to see them supporting each other and supporting the arts.” A school marketing research project inspired this amazing event and partnership. To learn more about Barberton Fourth Friday you can find us on Facebook. If you have questions please contact Samantha Coldwell at scoldwell@barbertonschools.org <mailto:scoldwell@barbertonschools.org>