Artoberfest and Ritz Theatre Sign Lighting Set to Shine in Downtown Gadsden
GADSDEN, Ala. — Downtown Gadsden is set to come alive tonight with art, music, and celebration as the Gadsden Arts Council hosts the second annual Artoberfest and unveils the newly restored Ritz Theatre sign.
The event runs from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Thursday, October 16, along Wall Street in Gadsden, and promises an evening full of local talent, food, and community spirit.
Artoberfest showcases Gadsden’s vibrant arts scene, featuring performances by the Gadsden State Show Band, Downtown Dance Conservatory, and the Theatre of Gadsden. Food trucks and family-friendly activities will also be on-site, making the event an inviting destination for all ages.
This year’s celebration carries added significance with the unveiling and lighting of the newly upgraded Ritz Theatre sign. The historic marquee, removed several weeks ago for restoration, has been modernized with energy-efficient lighting while preserving its timeless, vintage design.
The sign’s restoration is part of the GROW Gadsden master plan, an initiative focused on developing an arts district along Wall Street and enhancing the cultural heartbeat of the downtown area.
Organizers say the new sign’s debut symbolizes not just a facelift for one of Gadsden’s most beloved landmarks, but also the city’s continued commitment to the arts and downtown revitalization.
Residents and visitors alike are encouraged to attend and join in the celebration of creativity, community, and Gadsden’s growing arts identity.
