Bands play on at Fort Bragg’s First Friday, despite rains (photos)

FORT BRAGG, 5/6/23 — Upon stopping the car between Franklin and Main streets in Fort Bragg, May’s First Friday, a free monthly art and music event across several venues, seemed pretty bleak. Light rain, with a touch of wind had clearly kept the streets empty of people. Was it canceled? But after reluctantly opening the car door, an amazing cacophony greeted this reporter. Not just a little music, but coming from so many different directions made the joyous occasion impossible to miss.

The man who plays Paul Bunyan was out at First Friday and as usual drew eager local and tourist locals to pose with him, despite the rain and grumpy skies and steady sprinkling. Paul Bunyan Association President Heather Webster is shown on his right, having passed a volunteer sign up pad to a man in front./ Frank Hartzell the Mendocino Voice

The First Friday festivities drew a big crowd, even if people sped quickly between sites. “Paul Bunyan” (Mike Stephens) was found posing for portraits outside Piaci Pub and Pizzeria, along with Paul Bunyan Association President Heather Webster, whose only worry was keeping her volunteer sign-up list dry. They were telling everybody about the fun of Fort Bragg’s oldest event, which happens over Labor Day Weekend and is seeking help with myriad activities. Behind them, several bands took turns playing at the pizza restaurant and bar. But that was just the beginning. The Mendocino Coast Jazz Society presented the First Friday & Music Book Sale with 17 musicians in various stores and locations in Fort Bragg. Proceeds from the books for sale went to the Jazz Society Scholarship Fund.