‘Skate the Square’ event taking place tonight in Washington, Ga.

WASHINGTON, Ga. (WJBF) – “Skate the Square” Tuesdays in the city of Washington, Ga. in Wilkes County will be held throughout July from 5 p.m. until 8 p.m.

WJBF, NewsChannel 6 Photojournalist Regynal McKie was there Tuesday, July 16 ^th , to show how the event is bringing out participants and, at the same time, trying to bring the community together.

“This event is something [many area residents] remember fondly from their childhood – coming out, the Square being closed off, them being able to celebrate with each other in a fun, free environment in their economic centre,” said City of Washington Economic Development Director Brittany Buttrey. “So, we decided to revive it.”

Each Tuesday night in July has a special theme – the second Tuesday in July had an 80’s theme, and hits from that decade played over loudspeakers across the square.

“And the parents themselves have a nostalgic feeling about it, because they remember doing this as children in their hometown,” said Director Buttrey, adding that the overall atmosphere they were going for was “good vibes.”

One of those Wilkes County residents that is thankful that Skate the Square has returned is Lakia Cullars.

“Look around,” Cullars said. “Look at the kids. I’ve got a bunch of pictures – just smiling. They’re having fun. It’s fun. Everybody relaxing, breathing. You ain’t worried about where your child’s at. You can relax.”

In addition to 80’s tunes, there was also sidewalk chalk, bubble machines, free water, a misting station, and sno cones, and popcorn.

Washington County Fire was out there to provide an opportunity for participants to get a quick cooldown or, if they were brave, have a chance to play in a high-pressure stream of water.

Those just wanting to sit and talk and watch those taking part in the skating were able to sit at benches and tables outside the many local businesses that wrap around the city square.

Many of those businesses stayed open throughout the Skate the Square event.

“I think it’s important for cities and communities to focus on free public events that can level the playing field for anybody and everybody to come out,” Buttrey said. “In small downtown America, to me, vitality is people enjoying themselves and communing with each other.

“It’s important, because it brings us all together as one,” said area resident Lakia Cullars. “Because, in Washington, we call it ‘One Washington.’”

Residents and their families are encouraged to pack a picnic basket, coolers, blankets, and chairs, and enjoy a night of skating, rollerblading, biking, skateboarding, scooters and Big Wheels for the next event.

No ticket is required.

No motor vehicles will be allowed.

All children must be accompanied by an adult.

More “Skate the Square” events are scheduled for July 23rd and July 30th.

Photojournalist credit: Regynal McKie

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