Summer has arrived and, with it, the time when many people break free for a much-needed vacation.
    For those still wondering where to find their summer fun, and others just looking for an entertaining Friday night, the Downtown Statesboro Development Authority has an option.
    The authority’s monthly First Friday event is scheduled to return downtown Friday, this time boasting a “Staycation” theme.
    The community celebration promises to show off many of Statesboro’s own vacation possibilities and feature businesses that can direct people toward a new adventure, said Elena McLendon, the office manager for Main Street Statesboro.
    Beginning at 5:30 p.m., people will have an opportunity to view boats, travel trailers, off-road vehicles, kayaks and more on Siebald Street, next to the Bulloch County Courthouse lawn. 
    “We want to show off things you can do here in Statesboro to make this your vacation destination,” McLendon said. “With the way gas prices are, it can be better to stay right here, within driving distance, and have your vacation locally.”
    “We are really looking forward to having travel trailers, boats, and ATVs lining the street,” she said.
    Statesboro Yamaha, Millpond Kayak, Custom Marine and Ellis Travel Trailers will be among the vendors on hand for the event.
    As usual, First Friday will attempt to provide a little something for everyone, featuring games and exhibits for children as well as an assortment of local food and craft vendors.
    The mascots of Splash in the Boro and Zaxby’s will be there, and kids can play on a pirate-themed bounce house.
    Children will also receive pirate hats as part of a promotion for a new exhibit at the Georgia Southern University Museum.
    Also, in line with its idea to support summer activities, the development authority has invited area churches to showcase the many Vacation Bible Schools being hosted in Statesboro throughout the summer months, McLendon said.
    Many businesses will remain open while people meander downtown.
    A pair of art galleries will remain viewable throughout the event, which ends at 8 p.m., inside the Averitt Center for the Arts.
    Other featured vendors will include Simply Sweet Bakery, Boro Takeout and NYC Pizzeria.
    “Downtown Statesboro is a great place to live, work, shop, and play, and this is an event you don’t want to miss,” McLendon said.
    For more information about First Friday, people can contact the Downtown Statesboro Development Authority at (912) 764-7227 or mainstreet@statesborodowntown.com.
   
    Jeff Harrison may be reached at (912) 489-9454.