Free live music, book giveaways and a Latino cultural celebration fill Beaverton's First Street Dining Commons every week this September.
The Beaverton Downtown Association (BDA) has lined up three recurring programs at the Old Town outdoor plaza, giving residents a reason to head downtown on multiple days each week. All events are free.
Downtown Sounds, the BDA's summer concert series, brings live bands to the commons each Thursday from 6 to 8 p.m.
Four acts are booked for September: Joseph Konty opens the month on Sept. 3, with Hillbilly Supper Club, Dumpster Joe and Kick the Bucket Jazz Band playing the remaining Thursdays through Sept. 24.
Local vendors selling handmade goods and food set up alongside the stage each week.
At a recent Downtown Sounds evening, the vendor lineup included Rosa Gilbert of Crafty Cositas, ice cream maker Veronica Porras of Incownito, artist Lisa Stephonof of Frankenfabrics, Tim Yardley of the BDA and artist and educator Beth Pansino of Effelyn Art, according to the Beaverton Resource Guide. All offer locally made, handmade goods.
Amy Mower, a local artist and lifelong Beaverton resident who wrote the Resource Guide preview, urged neighbors to "meet me at The Commons" and experience the local music, food and arts scene.
On Wednesdays throughout September, the BDA hosts Book Corner at the Commons, a free book giveaway running from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sept. 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30.
The month also features Fiesta on First Street on Tuesday, Sept. 29, from 6 to 8 p.m.
The free celebration spotlights Beaverton's Latino community, bringing together local artists, makers, small businesses, musicians and community organizations.
The BDA describes the monthly event as a celebration of the Latino community's culture, creativity and flavors, according to the event's official page. Live music, artisan vendors, specialty foods and family-friendly activities are all on the program.
First Street Dining Commons sits between SW Washington Avenue and SW Watson Street on SW 1st Street in Old Town Beaverton. Tables, chairs and outdoor games are available during events.
Vendors interested in joining Downtown Sounds can apply through the BDA's website, and Latino-owned businesses, artists and nonprofits interested in Fiesta on First can reach the association at [email protected].
September at First Street Dining Commons
- Downtown Sounds: Thursdays, Sept. 3, 10, 17 and 24, 6–8 p.m. Free live music and vendors.
- Book Corner at the Commons: Wednesdays, Sept. 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Free books.
- Fiesta on First Street: Tuesday, Sept. 29, 6–8 p.m. Free Latino cultural celebration.
