On Friday, August 3rd, the Gilmer Chamber of Commerce, Gilmer Arts & Heritage Association, and Better Hometown program proved that even a little bit of the Hawaiian spirit can make its way through to the mountains by hosting a Mountain Luau for “First Fridays”.
The family friendly event sponsored each month by the GCC, GAHA, and BHT program included Hawaiian themed music, Hawaiian style clothing, and tropical treats to give the August “First Fridays” more of a Hawaiian feel. This meant that when both the parents and kids were not swaying to the sounds of the Waikiki, they were cooling off with some fresh orange sherbet.

Gilmer Chamber of Commerce President Paige Green, said of the event, “Tonight’s event is all about bringing folks downtown to shop with our merchants and enjoy a little fun. It’s just about being downtown and celebrating Ellijay.”

Also, during the event, businesses and organizations both participated in kids arts and crafts such as providing self made portraits, and offering specials such as fifty percent off sales.

The next “First Fridays” event is scheduled for Friday, September 7th and will be called a “Slice of Life” and will feature merchants from downtown Ellijay celebrating the apple, the longtime harvested fruit of Gilmer County.

For pictures of the event, please view the slideshow below.