By 1812Blockhouse
Downtown Mansfield is your go-to spot for a day of fun-filled family activities this summer. With a plethora of free events, art installations, and unique shops, it’s an ideal destination for a wallet-friendly outing. Enjoy live music, take an art class, explore public art, and savor delicious food at one of the excellent restaurants nearby. Let’s dive into the exciting offerings that await you in downtown Mansfield!
Live Music: Grooving All Summer Long
The Back Lot Series
The Back Lot Series is turning up the volume every first Friday of the month all summer long! Head to the back parking lot of 3RD CUP TEA, Two Cousins’ Pizza Co., and Relax, It’s Just Coffee for a fantastic musical experience. The next concert is on Friday, July 5, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM, featuring performances by Karyn Wade, Ramjet, and Ryan Kessler. Bring your friends, enjoy delicious food and drinks, and soak in the best local talent Mansfield has to offer!
Newsroom After Hours
Richland Source’s Newsroom After Hours is a monthly summer concert series held at Idea Works at 40 West Fourth Street. This series promises a fun evening out with a talented lineup of performers and additional activities to enjoy. With free food from Doc’s Deli and free beer from The Phoenix Brewing Company (for those 21+, of course!), it’s the perfect excuse to gather with friends or make new ones! The event runs from 6:30 PM to 10:00 PM.
Final Friday Concert Series at The Brickyard
Enjoy an evening of free music and fun at the Final Friday Concert Series at The Brickyard! On the last Friday of every month until September, head to the Brickyard Stage for a free event that’s fun for all ages. Enjoy live performances by talented musicians and indulge in a variety of delicious eats from local food trucks like Bytchn Kitchen, Deja Food, Fry Guys, Panchos Tacos, The Food Tour, and The Looney Lemon. Richland County Transit is offering fare-free, on-demand rides to and from The Brickyard, making it even easier to get to the event! The concert runs from 5:30 PM to 10:30 PM.
Art Classes: Unleash Your Creativity
EOA’s Art Happens
Relax and unleash your creativity at Element of Art Studio/Gallery’s mid-week open studio hours every first Tuesday from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM during their Art Happens: Summer Sessions! This free event is open to all ages, abilities, and skill levels, featuring art supplies and refreshments. An art coordinator will guide you through projects, so come ready to unwind and let art happen!
Blackout Poetry Workshop
Join Element of Art Studio/Gallery’s Blackout Poetry Workshop every 3rd Thursday from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM for a unique and creative experience! Use markers, paint, and discard books donated by the Friends of the Mansfield/Richland County Public Library to create one-of-a-kind poems. Bring your inner poet to life and give new meaning to old classics – all for free!
Studio Saturdays
Calling all artists! Join Element of Art’s Studio Saturdays every last Saturday of the month from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM for a free and open creative space. Bring your current project or start something new and collaborate with others! Light beverages and some art supplies will be provided to fuel your creativity.
Children’s Activities: Fun for the Little Ones
Wacky Wednesday at Richland Carrousel
Every Wednesday, Richland Carrousel hosts Wacky Wednesday from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, featuring a variety of free activities for the little ones to enjoy. From story time and yoga to coloring, Simon says, crafts, and free carousel rides, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Mansfield Richland County Public Library
At the Mansfield Richland County Public Library, children can enjoy a range of complimentary activities such as music, crafts, story time, and outdoor adventures. Kids can also receive their very own library card, enabling them to borrow books for home reading and fostering their love for books!
Pictures on the Plaza at Renaissance Theatre
Join Renaissance Theatre for Pictures on the Plaza, a free outdoor film screening each month. Starting at 7:30 PM, enjoy a night of fun and entertainment with your loved ones. Before the movies, participate in pre-show activities featuring games, crafts, and more for all ages. Bring a blanket, some snacks, and get cozy as you watch a classic film together!
Explore Downtown Mansfield: Art, Shops, and Food
There’s so much to see, do, and experience this summer in downtown Mansfield! Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor, there’s something for everyone to enjoy without worrying about breaking the bank. Stay up to date with the latest events and activities happening in the area by visiting our website, DowntownMansfield.com, and connecting with the community on our Facebook page. Be in the know about upcoming festivals, live music performances, art exhibitions, and more, ensuring that you never miss out on the fun in downtown Mansfield!
Come hang out with us in downtown Mansfield this summer for a fun time full of cool discoveries, excitement, and community vibes. We can’t wait to see you downtown!
Source: Downtown Mansfield, Inc.; Image: Destination Mansfield – Richland County
