BANGOR, Maine — Across the state, municipalities are trying to find unique ways to attract more businesses, residents, and visitors to their downtowns.
After a busy summer season, the City of Bangor is showcasing more arts and cultural events to keep up the momentum into the fall.
Big national acts such as John Mulaney and Pete Davidson are planned this fall to perform at the Cross Insurance Center. A comic and toy convention and theatrical performances are all serving as economic drivers.
Anne Kreig, economic development manager for the City of Bangor said, all these cultural activities entice folks to come downtown, and she hopes to keep them there.
“Part of our economic development, which is a huge piece of economic development, is what can you offer people in the arts and in the culture that's right there.”
The City of Bangor is highlighting its growing arts and culture scene.
“We are having people come to Bangor and see what we have to offer,” Krieg stated.
That’s exciting for new residents like Catherine Kilroy, who moved to Bangor two months ago with her six-year-old daughter.
“We really enjoy the community here, the really artsy feel of it of Bangor. The people are welcoming, and we love it,” exclaimed Kilroy.
They quickly immersed themselves in the city's arts scene.
The "artsy feel" and the closeness of downtown is even luring back former residents, like Amelia Armstrong, who is happy to see the growth and changes in downtown Bangor from when she lived there in the 80s.
“I like the revival of downtown, the art shows, the sidewalk festivals, and things like that's been happening,” Armstrong expressed.
These cultural and arts events, according to Krieg, add a vibrant scene to the downtown just having people live in your downtown.
“Which is fantastic for our residents to be able to have that right in the city that they live in,” Krieg stated.
Becky Garcia is the creative designer and owner of Palomas Boutique novelty gift shop that opened in August. Garcia said the vibrancy of the downtown area and a welcoming community attracted her to her spot at the corner of Harlow and Central Street, and business is just booming.
“We have been here for nine weeks, and I can honestly say it's the best nine weeks,” expressed Garcia.
Garcia, who is no stranger to downtown Bangor, runs another business, Bangor Frameworks.
She said, “We are busy. We are getting ready for the holiday season.”
“Sort of that chicken egg in economic development. You bring people then you're going to have businesses. Then, if you have businesses, that brings people,” explained Krieg.
There’s a host of other cultural events like a sidewalk art festival next weekend.
The Penobscot Theatre and Gracie Theater are also hosting events drawing folks to Bangor.
According to Bangor city officials, these events are a boost to businesses and are helping the local economy thrive.
For events and happenings in the Bangor area, click here.