Pictured planning for the First Friday street closure in Westfield are, from left, Terry Grisanti, Fire Police Deputy Coordinator; Staunzie Grady, CHQ Chamber Director of Events; Ed LeBarron Public Works Superintendent; and Westfield Mayor Dennis Lutes.

The CHQ Chamber is proud to present First Fridays for another summer season. For the third summer in a row this traditional street party in Westfield will literally spill into the street as the Chamber of Commerce has secured a permit from the New York State Department of Transportation to close Route 20 in the village during the event. The street closure allows for additional vendor participation and makes the experience safer and more walkable for all guests.

Route 20 (East Main Street) will be temporarily closed to all traffic from Portage (Route 394) to Union Street, with limited traffic from Union to Pearl Street. First Friday events run from 5-8pm. The closure will be in effect from 4 to 8:30 p.m. during First Friday June 6, and subsequent First Fridays on July 11 (Second Friday for Reunion Weekend), Aug. 1, and Sept. 5.

Chamber President and CEO Dan Heitzenrater noted, “This temporary road closure will help to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all involved in First Fridays – our businesses, our vendors, and the general public. We appreciate everyone’s cooperation and understanding. Simple detours will allow for emergency access, and there is plenty of parking on off-street lots and throughout the village.”

Staunzie Grady, CHQ Chamber Director of Events added, “‘First Fridays is a community event that highlights the energy and diversity of the local business community. It’s a chance for residents and visitors to connect with local business owners, enjoy live music, and experience the unique offerings that make Westfield’s downtown vibrant. We invite everyone to come out, explore, and support the small businesses that help the community thrive.”

The village of Westfield is providing a major in-kind contribution for First Friday this year, supplying personnel to help erect the barricades for each street closure, and take them down and reopen traffic at the end of the event. This is crucial assistance, and the Chamber thanks the Village for its participation. Larson Design Group is a headline sponsor for the series. Additional series sponsors are Brooks-TLC Hospital System/Kaleida Health, AHN Westfield Memorial Hospital, and Full Strength Coffee Company.

A number of local businesses and organizations have committed to participating all summer long this year. Season passholders are: 21 Brix Winery, Betts Insurance, Blue June Blooms, Concord Quilting Studio, Franklin’s Honey & Apples, Full Strength Coffee Company, Ghostfish Brewing Company, Johnson Estate Winery, Patterson Library, Peaceful Designs, Rosie’s Workshop, Surroundings Art Gallery & Framing, Tastefully Simple, United Way of Chautauqua County, Weed Ross, Westfield Boatworks, Chautauqua County Volleyball Club, Fantasy Facepaint, Fudge & Stuff, Northern Chautauqua Canine Rescue, Inc., Stockings by Missy, Westfield Ag and Turf LLC, and Westfield Memorial Hospital Auxiliary.

Vendor spaces are still available for First Fridays. All vendors are required to register in advance through the Chamber calendar at www.chqchamber.org.