COLUMBIA CITY, IN — August 7, 2026 — Downtown Columbia City came alive during August’s First Fridays celebration, as hundreds of residents and visitors gathered for Carnival on the Square, an evening filled with games, live entertainment, art, food and family-friendly activities.
After taking a break the previous month, First Fridays returned with a carnival-themed celebration that brought a noticeable energy to downtown.
Throughout the evening, attendees enjoyed larger-than-life characters, live caricature sketches and henna designs. TAG Art Company added to the festivities with creative entertainment that gave visitors plenty to discover as they explored the Square.
The carnival games quickly became one of the evening’s biggest attractions. NHES PIE provided the carnival games, while volunteers Trey, Delaney, Emily, Bryan, Chris and Doug kept the games running and helped create a fun atmosphere for attendees.
Turtle Town Dental sponsored the caricature artist, helping bring another interactive element to the event.
Music was also a major part of the celebration, with Los Electro providing the soundtrack for the evening and keeping the crowd moving throughout the night.
First Fridays also highlighted the businesses, vendors and organizations that help make the monthly event possible. Downtown businesses opened their doors, vendors filled the Square, and local food and entertainment providers contributed to the evening’s festive atmosphere.
“First Fridays truly is a community effort,” said Columbia City Connect Executive Director Niki Keister. “From our volunteers and sponsors to our downtown businesses, vendors and everyone who comes out to enjoy the event, so many people play a role in making these nights special.”
Volunteers were especially important to the evening’s success, assisting with carnival games and other event activities throughout the night.
Columbia City Connect also thanked everyone who attended and participated—from those who played carnival games and completed the scavenger hunt to those who shopped, dined, listened to music and simply spent the evening downtown.
“Seeing the community come together and enjoy downtown is what First Fridays is all about,” Keister said. “We are incredibly grateful for everyone who continues to show up and support these events.”
Next First Fridays: Game On!
First Fridays continues Friday, September 4, from 6–9 p.m. with Game On!
The September celebration will bring another evening of activities, entertainment, food and fun to downtown Columbia City.
For event updates and information about upcoming First Fridays celebrations, visit Columbia City Connect and follow First Fridays on social media.
