TDDA’s 4th Friday celebrates community with music and food

Published 1:01 pm Monday, July 28, 2025

Local Band TKO, Ray Owens on guitar and Mike Karaman on vocals, entertain 4th Friday attendees at St. Luke’s Plaza. (Photo by Storme Smith)
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TRYON—The Tryon Downtown Development Association’s 4th Friday event on July 25th transformed downtown into a hub of activity, as live music, delectable food, and community spirit filled the town from Trade Street to Pacolet Street.

The evening’s highlight was a performance by Ashley Heath and Her Heathens at the Rogers Park Amphitheater, as part of the 25th-anniversary season of the Summer Tracks Concert series. The lively atmosphere resonated throughout the town, with local band TKO playing classic rock hits at St. Luke’s Plaza. The band, typically a trio, delighted attendees as a dynamic duo featuring Mike Karaman and Ray Owens.

As visitors roamed the streets, they encountered a variety of live performances in different venues, including music from Pearls Collide at Katie D’s Seashack and Craig St. John entertaining patrons in front of Trade St. Diner.

Wild Petunias and the Nest at Missildine’s offered delicious snack samples. The Nest showcased their mouth-watering sourdough bread kits, paired with delectable Ashe County Cheese. 80Six Gallery also offered snacks and drinks to visitors. 

Adding to the culinary offerings, the Mirrorball Gallery featured the Toasted Cuban food truck, operated by Michael and Nurashikin Taboada. 

Taboada said of the evening, “We enjoy doing events at Mirrorball, especially on 4th Friday; it’s a wonderful way to get close and connect with the local community.”

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The next 4th Friday is set for August 22 at 5 p.m.. It will be highlighted by the election of Tryon Dog Mayor, promising extended shopping hours and a plethora of specials at local shops and restaurants. Attendees can expect live music, refreshments, and more, creating an inviting atmosphere for both residents and visitors.