PUTNAM — As summer winds down, First Fridays will move into its penultimate month with the Sept. 1 event. As with the entire season, the evening promises to be a festive and fun time celebrating iconic western films. From 6 to 9 p.m. there will be more than 50 art vendors, live music, family friendly activities, and art installations. Like all First Fridays, the event is free to the public and visitors are invited to discover the festival and the offerings of Putnam’s downtown, including al fresco dining, galleries, boutique shopping, and more. 

After exploring four distinct film genres including science fiction, action & adventure, classic films, and animation and musical films, September’s event will move westward into the territory of John Wayne and Clint Eastwood. With endlessly quotable lines, iconic scenes, and chases across prairies and deserts, The Western film genre is the embodiment of lawlessness and adventure. From art projects to costumes, there will be reflections of western films throughout downtown and patrons are invited to join in by dressing as their favorite characters – spurs, boots, hats, and all! 

As with all First Fridays events, there will be live music throughout the evening. From 6 to 9 p.m. the main stage will feature KICK – New England’s ultimate high-energy showband, specializing in every good rock and pop song ever made. Over in Union Square, Glorybound will play from 6:30 to 90 p.m.

The First Fridays Art Installations, which features local artists creating original work throughout each evening of the festival, will showcase the work of local print artist, teacher, and mentor muralist, Aaron Stark. Titled “Fruits & Fauna” Aaron will create a public art experience for festival attendees with an intriguing use of pattern and color across a shared canvas.

The fun continues at the Community Arts Table with an art project for all ages. September’s project is inspired by every western’s favorite animal – the horse! Using pool noodles, children and families are invited to make their own “pool noodle ponies.” 

Above all else, First Fridays remains an art-based festival, and the Sept. 1 event will see a record number of art vendors lining Main Street and Union Square in downtown Putnam. Patrons are invited to peruse the wide variety of artisan wares while enjoying the late summer weather. Coupled with outdoor art vendors, the many galleries of Putnam will also feature openings and exhibitions. Stop by Arts & Framing to see featured artist and potter Martha Youngsman, then head next door to The Flying Carpet Studio and their celebration of the modern western spoof Blazing Saddles. Over at Artique, families can create their own mini canvases with adorable cactus cartoons and watch live art demonstrations. The Complex Performing & Creative Arts Centre will feature a variety of earring designs. And don’t miss Providence band The Silks at The Stomping Ground. Downtown will be chock-full of art, performances, and projects all evening long. visit http://www.discoverputnam.com/firstfriday.