BANGOR, Maine — Municipalities across the state are finding unique ways to attract more businesses, residents and tourists downtown.
After a busy summer season, the City of Bangor is hosting more arts and cultural events to keep the momentum going into the fall.
This fall, major national artists such as John Mulaney and Pete Davidson are scheduled to perform at the Cross Insurance Center. Comic book and toy conventions and theatrical performances are all economic drivers.
Anne Craig, economic development manager for the city of Bangor, said all of this cultural activity is what brings people to downtown, and they want to keep them there.
“Part of our economic development, which is a big part of our economic development, is what we can offer people in the arts and culture areas that are out there.”
The city of Bangor is focused on a growing arts and culture scene.
“We’re inviting people to come to Bangor and see what we have to offer,” Krieg said.
That’s exciting for new residents like Katherine Kilroy, who moved to Bangor with her 6-year-old daughter two months ago.
“We really enjoy the community here, the really artsy vibe of Bangor. The people are welcoming, and we love it,” Kilroy exclaimed.
They quickly became immersed in the city’s art scene.
The “artsy vibe” and proximity to downtown even brings former residents back, like Amelia Armstrong, who is happy to see downtown Bangor grow and change since she lived there in the ’80s. ing.
“I like the downtown revival, the art shows, the sidewalk festivals, things like that,” Armstrong said.
According to Krieg, these cultural and arts events add a vibrant scene to downtown simply because people live there.
“It’s great that our residents can enjoy that right in the city they live in,” Krieg said.
Becky Garcia is the creative designer and owner of Palomas Boutique, a novelty gift shop that opened in August. Garcia said the vibrancy and welcoming community of downtown attracted her to her location on the corner of Harlow and Central streets, and business is booming.
“We’ve been here for nine weeks and I can honestly say it’s been the best nine weeks,” Garcia said.
Garcia is no stranger to downtown Bangor, owning another business called Bangor Frameworks.
she said. “We’re busy. We’re preparing for the holiday season.”
“It’s like the chicken egg in economic development. When you bring people in, you create business. And when you have business, people will come to you,” Krieg explained.
There are many other cultural events taking place next weekend, including a sidewalk art festival.
The Penobscot Theater and Gracie Theater also host events that bring people to Bangor.
Bangor city officials say these events boost businesses and help the local economy thrive.
Click here for information on events and happenings in the Bangor area.