Downtown Auburn held its first ever AUtumn Nights event since the creation of the entertainment district.
The event was sponsored by the Auburn Chamber of Commerce, the Auburn-Opelika Tourism Bureau, the city of Auburn, Auburn Athletics, Downtown Auburn Merchants and the Auburn Alumni Association. It took place Sept. 14.
A pep rally started the celebration, and Aubie, the marching band, the cheerleaders and the Swingin' Medallions were all at Toomer's Corner throughout the night.
It was designed to offer students, alumni and the Auburn community a way to celebrate the first home game, which took place the morning after.
Although the primary purpose of the event was to entertain people coming through for the game, businesses claim it did wonders for their stores and bars as well.
The Gap on College Street typically closes at 9 p.m. on Fridays, but because of the event it stayed open longer, said Amanda Hutchinson, assistant manager of the Gap.
"We're staying open until 10 and it hasn't negatively affected the business at all," Hutchinson said. "Tonight alone we are doing really well."
The majority of their customers are Auburn fans, and they loved being there for the event, she said.
"It brings in a lot of people from the community, and it's just good for the business," Hutchinson said.
Thomas Paterson, a bouncer for Bourbon Street Bar, sat on a stool outside of the bar and waited for customers.
He said the bar doesn't usually open until 10 p.m. on a Friday for college students, but for this event Bourbon Street opened at 7 p.m.
"The college crowd isn't here and they are serving the parents, community and alumni, but are bringing in more business," he said.
Because of the new open container law that loosens the restraints on public consumption of alcohol, Paterson said that while the bar may not seem full, business is still good.
"Customers are buying drinks and walking out," he said. "Our business right now is coming in and carrying out."
Lt. Kenny Frazier, an officer with the Auburn Police Department, said the new law has not produced any negative effects yet.
"In this setting with adults and family, it's fine and hasn't gotten out of hand," Frazier said. "The department looks forward to securing the event because of the low-key environment."
Police officers had to show up about two hours before the event and stay another two afterward.
"We want our patrons to know that they are in a secure environment," he said.
At the event, there were several officers scattered around to guarantee safety.
"The main thing is you want enough officers visible," Frazier said.
The next Downtown AUtumn Nights event will be held Friday, Nov. 16, the night before Auburn plays Alabama A&M University.
Do you like this story? The Plainsman doesn't accept money from tuition or student fees, and we don't charge a subscription fee. But you can donate to support The Plainsman.
