Love is in the air this Friday, Feb. 7 as the Downtown Beaufort Merchants’ Association ushers in the month with a romance-themed evening during their First Friday event downtown from 5 to 8 p.m. Everyone is invited to come downtown to shop, dine and support the eclectic mix of local restaurants, galleries and shops that make Beaufort special.

To celebrate this special month of love and romance, everyone will be given the opportunity to pick up an entry form from a participating Merchants’ Association business and fill it out for a chance to win a gift certificate for a Beaufort romance package – a night’s stay at the Cuthbert House Inn and dinner for two at Panini’s restaurant.<span class="Apple-converted-space">&nbsp;</span>

There will be second- and third-place prizes, as well. While all are welcome to enter the drawing, shoppers who make a purchase at one of the participating businesses will receive two additional entry forms. There will be a drawing for the contest at 8 p.m. at the clock tower on West St. Participants must be present to win.

As with all First Friday events, there will be entertainment, specials and activities for everyone to enjoy. DJ Mike will play a mix of music out at the clock tower and the Beaufort Shag Club will showcase their mastery of Shag dancing. The Harbor Masters will pop in and out of shops sharing their unique style of vocal artistry.

Each month, a different merchant member business is highlighted during First Friday. This month, The Tabby Shore Gift Boutique will be in the spotlight. The shop offers trendy and unique gifts for all occasions that are curated locally. Staff from the shop will be out at the clock at Bay and West street to meet and talk with shoppers and to showcase the fun and creative offerings available at their store.

Also Happening

Beaufort Emporium: Come celebrate as the store welcomes three new vendors. Hen House Vintage, Coastal Creative and Two Storied Vintage all specialize in unique vintage and re-imagined design pieces.

Thibault Gallery: Free gift wrapping and note card with each purchase of one of Mary Thibault’s Valentine FROG design mugs. Special performance by Megan Howe, Dance Instructor and 2020 CAPA Dancing with Our Stars contestant.