The forecast said HOT. Columbia City said GAME ON!
September’s First Fridays may have brought some serious heat, but that didn’t stop the community from heading downtown for an evening of games, music, history and a movie under the stars. From the first arcade game of the evening to the final scene of The Princess Bride, Game On! gave everyone a reason to get out and enjoy downtown.
Let the Games Begin
The arcade was the main attraction for many throughout the evening, with 15 arcade games from The Arcade Rental spread throughout the event. Kids took on classic games, adults got in on the competition, and more than a few people had the chance to settle some long-standing arcade rivalries.
Beyond the arcade, board games and yard games gave friends and families even more ways to play. Whether you were competing for the high score, challenging someone to a game of strategy or simply watching the action, there was no shortage of fun happening throughout downtown.
Music, Stories and a Night Downtown
The Todd Harrold Trio kept the evening moving with live music, providing the perfect soundtrack as people explored the event and visited downtown businesses.
For those who wanted to learn a little more about the place they were spending the evening, Nathan Bilger led a Historic Tour around the square. The tour offered a closer look at Columbia City’s history and the stories behind the downtown buildings and streets we see every day.
Movie Under the Stars
As the sun went down, the crowd shifted toward the courthouse lawn for one of Columbia City’s favorite summer traditions—Movie on the Square.
Families and friends settled in with blankets and chairs to watch The Princess Bride on the big screen. The Redeemer’s House added to the movie-night experience with a free popcorn bar, giving movie-goers the perfect snack to enjoy during the film.
That’s a Wrap on September First Fridays
Game On! was a little reminder of what First Fridays are all about: creating opportunities for the community to come together and enjoy downtown in a different way. There was something happening around nearly every corner, from games and music to local history, shopping, dining and a movie beneath the stars.
And while the temperatures may have tested us, the community showed up and made the night one to remember. Thank you to everyone who came out, along with the volunteers, vendors, sponsors and community partners who helped make Game On! happen.
One First Fridays remains in 2026, and we’re ending the season with a fall celebration!
Fall in Love with Downtown
Friday, October 2 | 6–9 PM
Downtown Columbia City
Join us for the First Fridays finale featuring pumpkin painting, a pie eating contest, live music from Cicadas, a fall photo opportunity, Health & Wellness Alley and Movie Under the Stars featuring Halloweentown. We’ll see you downtown!
