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First Fridays to be a fall fest

CHAD PLAUCHE-ADKINS The Marietta Times Laura Pytlik sets up Wit and Whimzy’s window for Fall Fest on Wednesday in Marietta.

This month’s First Fridays event will feature a taste of fall, with a theme of Fall Fest and plenty of family-friendly activities.

West Virginia University at Parkersburg will be sponsoring Friday’s event from 5 to 9 p.m. in downtown Marietta.

Laura Pytlik, owner of Wit and Whimzy on Front Street, said the Armory lawn will feature activities for children.

“After the kids complete each station they get it marked off a checklist. Once they finish it they have a chance to win giveaways,” she said.

Children will also be able to interact with WVU-P’s mascot, Ricky the Riverhawk. Ricky will be walking the streets of downtown Marietta and be available for anyone who wants to take pictures with him. Besides Ricky, the city of Marietta will have several costumed characters greeting First Fridays guests.

Another fun activity for participants will be a scavenger hunt, Pytlik said.

“Participating businesses will have a flier in the window with a picture of Ricky on it. Just take a picture and send it on Instagram with a special hashtag,” she said.

Even though the event is meant to be fun for the kids, there is also a charitable side to the Fall Fest.

“It’s also the Riverhawk Food Drive,” said Debbie Cline, co-owner of Twisted Sisters on Front Street. “Several businesses including (Twisted Sisters) will be drop-offs for the (Riverhawk Food Pantry).”

The Riverhawk Food Pantry is located on the campus of WVU-P and offers non-perishable food items for the campus community. According to the WVU-P Facebook page each donation will enter the person for a chance to win WVU-P gear.

Even though WVU-P isn’t in Marietta, it has been a great sponsor for First Fridays, said Pytlik.

“WVU-P is a great partner, and we appreciate them reaching across the river to engage with Marietta,” she said. “Fall Fest is shaping up to be a fun evening for families and an excellent opportunity to visit the downtown shops and businesses.”

For more information about the Riverhawk Food Pantry and the non-perishable items they are in need of, go to wvup.edu.

If you go:

•What: October’s First Fridays/ Fall Fest.

•Where: Downtown, the Armory.

•When: 5 to 9 p.m. Friday.

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