By GRAHAM BROOKS / Staff Writer

HELENA–An event that has grown and continues to be a popular Friday night attraction for families has even bigger plans in 2018, as Helena First Friday makes its return for the first time in the calendar year on Friday, April 6.

Helena First Friday will begin at 5 p.m. on April 6, in Old Town Helena and run till approximately 9 p.m. where there will be plenty of shopping opportunities from unique retail and food vendors, live music and more.

In addition to the unique vendors and food trucks, Old Town Helena storefronts will also stay open later and offer special discounts and surprises that will appeal to a variety of ages.

The other dates for Helena First Friday will be May 4, June 1 and July 3 as big plans are set for the months of June and July.

In the month of June, a free concert will be held featuring Bo Bice and 7 Stone Riot as the Helena Miracle League presents the Season Opener Jam to benefit the Helena Miracle League’s goal of building a special needs baseball field. The concert will run from 8-10 p.m. at the Helena Amphitheater.

The July event will feature the city fireworks display beginning at 9 p.m. as Helena First Friday organizer Kristi Scozzaro said the months of June and July are expected to be some of the largest crowds of the season.

The vendors and organizations participating in the April First Friday event are as follows:

–Cahaba Dental Arts

–Publix

–Helena Dog House

–Paparazzi Jewelry

–Helena United Methodist Church

–Helena Hollow

–Impact Martial Arts

–Bodhi Zen Massage

–Kona Ice

–Frios

–Janelle Travel Co

–Helena Public Library

–Boutique 32

–AFFCU Mobile ATM

–Tyler Decor Haven

–Whiplash

–Husky Tails

–Bryon Rickerson Food Truck

–Rookies

–Tamale Queen

–Lazy Boy BBQ

–JQ’s One Man Big Band

–Thomas Trussell

–All About Fun Inflatables

Those interested in becoming a vendor for upcoming Helena First Friday events should ask to join Old Town Helena First Friday Vendors at Facebook.com/groups/466018606916145/.