Main Gate Square Redefines Student Entertainment

By Jane McCollum, Marshall Foundation

ASUA/Zona Zoo students and The University of Arizona Marching Band members partnered with Main Gate merchants to sponsor Bear Down Fridays’ second season. This year, we literally saw red as Zona Zoo crew members transformed University Boulevard into a sea of red paint in the wee hours of Friday morning. But the Pride of Arizona always stole the show at the Bear Down Fridays Pep Rally with its spirited performances. Students, parents and alums were also treated at Bear Down Fridays to live music, cereal eating contests, dance performances, prizes, contests, free food, outdoor grilling and guest hosts including UA basketball coach Lute Olson.

But the fun doesn’t end at Bear Down Fridays. Nightlife and entertainment for all ages has been enhanced on University by the addition of live music at Auld Dubliner, Café Paraiso, Caffe Luce, Frog & Firkin, Vila Thai Cuisine and Which Wich. Vila Thai also introduced Thursday Night Artwalks and Espresso Art hosts open mic nights for both musicians and comedians. On Sundays, Geronimo Plaza is often the scene of outdoor jazz, classical guitar, Latin rhythms, rock & roll, and Zydeco. A public participation mural has grown in popularity this year as more students find painting a wall a great way to express themselves.

This Fall, Main Gate Square also welcomes new merchants Loop Sneakers and Jeans, Sanctity Tattoo, Sunglasses and Spectacles, and Wilko, a unique market and gift store on the corner of Park and University. Which Wich arrived in September with a huge grand opening attended by co-owner and former UA basketball player Jason Terry. Sultan Palace, an authentic Afghan restaurant where diners may sit on the floor as is tradition, Saigon Pho, a Vietnamese restaurant, and Paradise Bakery will soon join the wide array of great eateries, cafes and restaurants at Main Gate Square.

Next time you are in Tucson visiting your Wildcat, make sure you spend some time enjoying the experience of Main Gate Square.

For more information call (520) 622-8613 or visit www.maingatesquare.com.