Kick off your Mothers Day weekend by joining family and friends for a fun-filled evening in downtown Racine on Friday, May 7 during First Fridays!  With live music, carriage rides, and shopping and dining specials, you'll want to explore all that Downtown Racine has to offer.

Downtown merchants will also be collecting new and gently used children's books to help out the Racine-Kenosha Community Action Agency's Head Start Programs.

Live music during May's First Fridays event includes:

• Roy Edwards Band at Monument Square
• Corey Nietupski of Avedis soloing on 6th Street
• Mandatory Overtime Unplugged at Main Street's Crosswalk Park
• Katie Lafond at Dimples
• Annie B at the Pink Magnolia
• Maycyn Taylor at Northern Lights Gallery
• Jeff Ward at Molly Magruder
• Mark Paffrath at John's Dock

Here are some of the merchants specials being offered during First Fridays:

Photographic Design Studio and Gallery -- Enjoy the "Amish in the Midwest" photographic exhibit by Carol Hansen and Brad Jaeck.  See framed art reduced by 40% and more.  Also, buy your Mother a special music box personalized with her favorite bird, flower or scenery.  

Top Dog Hot Dogs -- Mothers can choose their own $5 Flat Fever deal.  Also, FREE PUPPIES to  anyone who makes a purchase during First Fridays.

Pink Magnolia -- Enjoy a wonderful night of music, fish fry and decadent desserts.  Live music by Annie B from 7:30 - 11:30 p.m.   

Inside Out -- Receive a 10% discount when you purchase a gift for Mother or when you donate a children's book (slightly used or new).  Refreshments will be served.

Dimples Fine Imports -- Free incense with every purchase.

Plumb Gold Ltd. -- Shop for the mothers in your lives.  With any purchase of $100 or more, receive a free pair of pearl stud earrings.  Special runs Friday and Saturday while supplies last. 

Casablanca de Mexico Restaurant and Lounge -- All moms will receive a free dessert.

Art Metals Studio -- Bring in your mom and we'll give her a present; a handmade heart pendant (while supplies last). 

Fired Up Racine -- Paint your own mug workshop from 6 - 8:30 p.m.  This is great for a Mother's Day gift!  Reservations are recommended; call 619-9234.

Artists Gallery -- Check out a whole new look at the gallery with a special reception from 6-9 p.m.

Northern Lights Gallery -- If you like Pandora, you will love Moress.  Special introductory offer -- purchase 3 beads and receive a $65 bracelet FREE. 

RAM -- Free admission from 10 a.m. - 9 p.m.  From 4-8 p.m., create magnificent artwork inspired by RAM's current exhibition.  Also visit RAM's Awesome Art Sale.