FORT PIERCE — ’Twas the Friday Fest before Christmas in downtown Fort Pierce, and while the crowd was smaller than usual, the evening still offered pockets of holiday charm, cheerful music, and the kind of community spirit that keeps this longtime tradition alive.
Though turnout was lighter than expected — possibly due to confusion among some vendors over whether the December event would take place — the December weather was ideal, and those who came enjoyed a relaxed, unhurried version of the monthly festival.
With the usual Marina Way and Avenue A closures scaled back, the footprint felt more intimate, giving families and visitors more room to stroll, chat, and take in the festive sights.
Even with fewer tents and food trucks than in years past, the plaza held onto its seasonal sparkle. Santa Claus delighted children with photos and waves, while The Old Hippies — the musical duo of Bill and Kay McDonald — filled the night with nostalgic tunes that drifted warmly across the square.
Vendors who set up for the evening helped ensure that holiday shoppers still had unique local finds to explore. Ludwig’s German Bakery offered European-style holiday treats; Island Palm Sips and Snacks sweetened the air with lemonade and kettle corn; and Claire’s Own Creations drew in visitors with handcrafted accessories perfect for gifting.
One of the standout attractions was Arts of Wire, where artist Tim Simos showcased an imaginative lineup of wire sculptures. What began with simple shapes — a heart, an eye, an ice cream cone — has grown into multiple themed collections spanning sports, holidays, sushi, jewelry, and more. His display, glowing under the plaza lights, captivated passersby and highlighted the creativity Friday Fest continues to inspire.
As Fort Pierce heads into the new year, there’s optimism that Friday Fest will continue to rebuild its momentum. With strong community support, local artisans and musicians ready to shine, and a renewed focus on engagement, the monthly celebration still holds plenty of promise.
And if this year’s December edition offered a quieter moment of holiday reflection, perhaps next year’s will bring back the bustling, twinkling kickoff residents look forward to — a true showcase of downtown Fort Pierce at its festive best.