MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Alley Dayz, hosted by the Downtown Memphis Commission, made its way across the city of Memphis Wednesday, and residents got a chance to support businesses while having fun in downtown Memphis.
Memphians have steered clear of downtown Memphis recently due to crime. However, some organizations are hoping to see a resurgence in the number of people visiting downtown.
Thirty local vendors, including artists, eateries, clothing businesses and more, came to Maggie H. Isabel St. for Alley Dayz.
One of the event organizers, Milton Howery, said this is the second in a chain of Alley Dayz events intended to show the history of downtown Memphis and support Memphis-based businesses and nearby restaurants.
'It's really good for our Memphis," said Chandell Ryan, president of the Downtown Memphis Commission. "It's really great for downtown to have vendors to be able to share their ideas and their creativity, and for people to really appreciate and love on them. It's amazing."
Others said this will encourage more people to visit downtown and help boost Memphis' economy.
Vendors and visitors said this event exceeded their expectations.
"Of course, I love that they're supporting the community," said Myron Ward, an Alley Dayz visitor. "The youth are out. It's a good, clean, nice event to bring the family [to]. Those are good things. Good things for Memphis."
This event will be happening more often. Alley Dayz will be coming to Memphis neighborhoods, starting with the Pinch District in September and the Edge District in October. It will restart in the spring of 2025.