HOPKINSVILLE, KY (CHRISTIAN COUNTY NOW) – Patrons in downtown Hopkinsville will be permitted to drink and walk around public spaces and other businesses as the city launches the Downtown Entertainment District on June 21. This initiative is part of the city’s ongoing efforts to energize downtown Hopkinsville and support small business growth.
Every day from 11 a.m. through 10 p.m., patrons are able to leave participating businesses with an alcoholic beverage and walk around a designated area downtown while drinking. Boundaries are posted with signs downtown, extending from East Fifth Street to 11th Street. Permitted businesses will provide properly branded cups with the entertainment district logo, outside drinks are not permitted to be consumed in public spaces.
A news release from the City of Hopkinsville says this will offer residents and visitors the opportunity to sip, shop, and stroll through the heart of downtown while enjoying the many local businesses, dining options, and amenities the district has to offer.
“The Downtown Entertainment District is a key step forward in revitalizing our city and creating new opportunities for economic development,” said Hopkinsville Mayor J.R. Knight. “This initiative aligns perfectly with our Growing Home plan to make Hopkinsville a place where people want to live, work, and invest. I’m excited to see our community and local businesses benefit from this vibrant new space in the heart of our city.”
Participating businesses
The Downtown Entertainment District website currently shows a handful of businesses that are participating in the initiative. So far this includes The Alhambra, Hopkinsville Brewing Company, Baked, The Mixer, The Crusty Pig, The Book and Bottle Shop, Camo Caravan, J. Schrecker Jewelry, and Bella Marie Boutique.
“We’re really excited about the potential of the entertainment district,” said Hopkinsville Brewing Company owner Kate Russell. “I think it will allow us to get more creative with our collaborations with other businesses, as well as giving our customers more options.” She explained that this opens the doors to the possibility of new events and cross promotes businesses.
Despite the opening on June 21, an official Grand Opening Celebration is scheduled to take place on Aug 23. Festivities will include food, music, and collaborations with local businesses.
Businesses located within the Downtown Entertainment District that would like to allow patrons to bring alcoholic beverages into their establishment must complete a participation application and pay an annual permit fee. Businesses that choose not to participate cannot legally allow patrons with alcohol to enter their establishment. For more information and to apply, visit www.hoptown.org/entertainmentdistrict.
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