The Magnolia welcomed residents and visitors Friday evening for its second-ever First Friday event, featuring a “White Attire” theme, local food vendors and entertainment as part of the Independence Day weekend.
Ryan Watley, CEO of Go Forward Pine Bluff, said the monthly event is intended to introduce more people to the venue while giving the community another place to gather.
With many visitors returning to Pine Bluff for the holiday weekend, Watley said he wanted people to know there are local events where they can enjoy themselves, adding that everyone was welcome whether or not they participated in the evening’s all-white dress theme.
The event featured food from resident vendors Oasis Catering and Kylan’s Kitchen, along with guest chef Derek Urquhart, who served lamb chops and soul food. Watley said the event had drawn a strong crowd and that attendees were enjoying the variety of food and entertainment available throughout the venue.
In addition to the main floor, guests had access to an upstairs bar, cigar lounge, televisions and additional seating overlooking Simmons Bank Park, giving visitors several places to relax throughout the evening.
Watley said one of the goals of First Friday is to introduce newcomers to The Magnolia. Although the venue has not yet celebrated its first anniversary, with that milestone approaching in August, he said many people are still discovering what it has to offer.
Among the businesses operating inside The Magnolia is Kylan’s Kitchen, which Watley described as one of the venue’s established restaurants. He said the business has become a mainstay at The Magnolia and expressed excitement about seeing it continue to grow.
Watley said The Magnolia is open five days a week and continues to serve as a gathering place for dining and entertainment beyond its monthly themed events.
The First Friday series is held once each month on the first Friday, with organizers planning to continue rotating themes throughout the year. Watley said the August event has already been scheduled, although its theme has not yet been announced and will be revealed on a future promotional flyer.
He said the monthly events are intended to continue introducing residents and visitors alike to The Magnolia while highlighting the local businesses that call the venue home.
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