Market Street in downtown Parkersburg came to life Friday evening as the first-ever “Meet Me on Market” event welcomed crowds for a night of local art, live music, family-friendly fun, and community connection. Hosted by Downtown PKB, this new monthly series will run every Third Friday through September, each with a fresh theme and lineup of activities.
The debut celebration, themed “Flight,” drew hundreds of residents and visitors into the heart of the city from 5 to 7 p.m., with several venues staying open later. From handcrafted goods to interactive art and literary events, the evening offered a vibrant showcase of what makes Parkersburg’s downtown unique.
A major attraction was the Simply Kin Mini-Market Pop-Up at Highmark Plaza, where local creators displayed handmade products ranging from baked goods to jewelry and home décor.
Eva Bennett, co-founder of the market, shared that the concept was started about two and a half years ago with the goal of giving grassroots makers a platform. “We really try to uplift local makers, bakers, creators — just whoever we can,” she said.
This summer’s pop-ups also feature youth artists. Friday’s spotlight shone on student potter Fern Belcher, whose colorful ceramics drew enthusiastic attention. “I like pottery because it’s really artsy and fun. I can make a lot of stuff,” she said, beaming.
Just a short stroll away, First Chapter Bookstore hosted local author A.E. Fox for an exclusive pre-release celebration of the deluxe edition of her debut novel in the High Blood series.
Blending vampire fantasy with deep themes of mental health, Fox described her book as both “chaotic and layered.” Attendees lined up for autographs, refreshments, and conversation with the author ahead of the book’s official release on May 24.
The Parkersburg Art Center opened its doors for a family-friendly evening of creativity. Guests could try their hand at the pottery wheel with Jennifer Eisenmann or dive into watercolor painting with artist Lynda Rhodes. A free crafting area, sponsored by the Wood County Solid Waste Authority, gave kids another outlet to explore their imaginations.
Rhodes, who previously worked with oils, shared how she discovered her love for watercolor later in life. “I loved oils. Never dreamed I’d give them up,” she reflected. “But watercolor was my passion — I didn’t know that until I tried it.”
Inside the Art Center, The Market gift shop celebrated its grand reopening with giveaways and snacks, adding another layer to the night’s excitement.
Music was also a major part of the event, with local artist Evie Schaffer performing live at the Parkersburg Brewing Company. Guests there enjoyed happy hour specials and brewery tours, while down the street, Wine Down on Market offered drink specials and a relaxing atmosphere.
Enhanced Wellness treated guests to quick “glow-up” sessions and express facials, while Artbeat Studio got the community involved with a collaborative mural project where visitors could leave their literal mark on downtown.
Tying into the “Flight” theme, West Virginia University at Parkersburg hosted a paper airplane station. Kids and families also visited booths from the United Way and the Resiliency Center, which provided crafts, tours, and wellness information.
One of the most engaging elements of the evening was the “scavenger hunt bingo.” Participants grabbed bingo cards and wandered Market Street, earning stamps from participating businesses. Completed cards could be returned to the Sips Coffee Truck to enter a drawing for a local prize bundle, set to be announced Tuesday, May 20.
Organizers hinted at even more surprises to come and encouraged everyone to “put on your comfy shoes and bring your friends and family” for upcoming editions of Meet Me on Market.
With rotating themes and evolving activities, this new tradition aims to spark joy, support small businesses, and bring the Parkersburg community together — one Friday night at a time.
