ATHENS, Ala. – Athens Main Street is proud to announce the launch of a yearlong celebration marking 20 years of serving downtown Athens, honoring two decades of revitalization, partnership, and community pride.

Since its founding, Athens Main Street has worked alongside local government, businesses, property owners, volunteers, and residents to strengthen downtown as the heart of the community. What began as a grassroots effort has grown into an award-winning organization delivering transformative placemaking projects, thriving events, business support, and preservation-based economic development.

“Downtown Athens is what it is today because an entire community chose to invest in it,” said Athens Main Street Executive Director Tere Richardson. “This 20-year milestone is a celebration of the people, partnerships, and shared vision that have shaped our downtown.”

Athens Mayor Ronnie Marks emphasized the organization’s impact: “Athens Main Street is without question one of the very best organizations our city has ever partnered with. What they have done to revitalize our downtown area is nothing short of remarkable, and it is a true testament to the hard work they put in day in and day out.”

Mayor Marks continues, “Athens Main Street has played a massive role in making our city as attractive as it is, and they are a huge reason we continue to be one of the fastest growing cities in the entire State.”

The anniversary celebration will roll out throughout the year and include special events, storytelling campaigns, recognition of longtime partners and volunteers, and highlights of the projects and moments that have defined downtown’s transformation. From signature events like the Athens Farmers Market and seasonal festivals that bring thousands to downtown, to major capital investments like Merchants Alley, Athens Main Street’s impact can be seen and felt throughout the district.

“A city’s downtown is often the heart of a community, and Athens is no different,” said Athens Main Street Board Chair Tommy Coblentz. “The successes achieved could not have been accomplished without the hard work of numerous volunteers, community leaders, and business owners’ commitment to the success of downtown Athens.”

Coblentz said the organization is excited to celebrate 20 years of downtown growth and revitalization in Athens and looks forward to a yearlong celebration with the entire community.

Limestone County Commission Chairman Collin Daly highlighted the collaborative approach that has driven downtown’s success: “From major investments like the Athens Farmers Market and Merchants Alley to the ongoing restoration of the Limestone County Courthouse Grounds, their work shows what’s possible when public and private partners come together with a shared vision.”

How You Can Be Part of the Celebration

Athens Main Street invites the entire community to participate in this milestone year:

• Share Your Story: Submit your favorite downtown memory or photo from the past 20 years on social media using #AMS20Years
• Attend Celebration Events: Watch for special anniversary events throughout the year, including signature festivals and community gatherings
• Support Downtown: Shop, dine, and do business in downtown Athens to invest in the heart of your community
• Volunteer: Join the effort by contacting Athens Main Street about volunteer opportunities
• Stay Connected: Follow Athens Main Street on social media and visit athensmainstreet.org for updates on anniversary activities and ways to get involved

As Athens Main Street enters its third decade, the organization remains focused on its mission to create a vibrant, welcoming, and economically strong downtown through collaboration, strategic investment, and preservation of Athens’ unique character.

Additional details about anniversary events and opportunities to participate will be announced in the coming months.