Milwaukie's First First Friday Event


Just from driving around downtown Milwaukie looking for parking my husband James, three-year-old son Titus and I could tell a lot of Oregonians were out enjoying Cinco De Mayo. Eventually parking a few blocks away at Titus preschool, we strolled past the horse mural at Milwaukie High school when he paused in wonder. A MAX train pulling up to the Main street station. Like most little boys, trains of any kind fascinate Titus. We are big fans of the Orange line coming to Milwaukie.

Walking under the bridge and past Dogwood Park we start to hear music.

First up, Bloom Garden Supply. Folk music with hamburgers, hotdogs and drinks.


Needing to get our Cinco De Mayo jitters out, we continue on for margaritas and Mexican food. Cha Cha Cha, one of my favorite places for a great bite to eat in Downtown Milwaukie. Easy, fast, inexpensive and delicious, plus great flavored margaritas and due to the festivities, an entertaining band playing outside.
Kids nachos, fish tacos, tamales, margaritas and an horchata later, it’s time to venture on.
The first set of booths heading down Main street have some fun surprises.
The Cribbage Maan – Roger is a maker of fine Game Boards, Signs and Other What-Knots. I found his work to be original and stunning.
 ...and right next door... Oh yes, bringing the paint by numbers back and for teens and adults! I love Elle's Peinture nostalgique creations.
Passing a few more venders we get to the parking lot with about a dozen tents. Families, friends, venders, dogs all having a great time despite the lack of sunshine. Some drinking beers, some dancing to the music, some shopping and chatting.
Titus and I opted for an ice cream at Scoop. Salted Carmel and Fair Trade Chocolate hit the spot. YUMM
 
Running into neighbors made strolling to check out the booths even more fun. Handmade art, Jewelry, treats, furniture, and odds and ends. James even bought a Mill-Walk-Key shirt from Shirt Nerdery.


Titus was the first to see it, A RAINBOW he shouted while pointing over the City Hall building. What a perfect showing for Milwaukie’s finest to enjoy.

Slowly making our way back to the car, Titus got a sticker while chatting with some of the Clackamas Firefighters. All firefighters are Hero’s to our little guy, just like his uncle Justin.
Passing back by the Cha Cha Cha festivities we spotted Oliveand Dingo being silly and making balloon animals for eager kids.


I am looking forward to future Milwaukie First Friday Events; warmer days, more venders, more food 😊, more dancing and more friends.

Where is your favorite First Friday Event?

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