‘Fire Up DWNTWN’ Back and Better for Third Year

Muncie Downtown Development Partnership (MDDP), an organization connecting our community and creating a vibrant downtown, announced today initial plans for its third “Fire Up DWNTWN,” a street festival that has drawn over 10,000 people to the heart of the city in each of its last two celebrations. The event, sponsored by Ivy Tech Muncie, will be held from 1pm to 10pm, Saturday September 21st.

The event will feature special shape hot-air balloons, a variety of food options, live music, games, and contests. New this year, DWNTWN IDOL, a karaoke-style, sing-off show will be held on the stage at Main and Walnut Streets. Contestants will compete in three categories, solo over 18 years of age, solo under 18 years of age, and group performances. Contestants may sign up at downtownmuncie.org/fireup.

“Variety is the spice of ‘Fire Up,’ and we like to make it different and more interactive every year,” said Cheryl Crowder, MDDP’s Director of Events. “Judges will pick the winners of the three categories then audience support will determine the final winner. How fun is that?”

Returning will be last year’s hit, The Clubhouse Hot Pepper Eating Contest. The first-time event drew hundreds to watch ten participants eat peppers with escalating Scoville Heat Unit levels, topping out with final contestants ingesting the Carolina Reaper at 1.6 million Scovilles, or 400 times hotter than a traditional jalapeno.

“’We love that downtown businesses do creative things to welcome people during the event,” said Nick Tokar, MDDP Board President. “We’re proud to have such great support from Ivy Tech Muncie and all of the sponsors who believe in the importance of an energetic downtown community.”

For sponsorship or volunteer information contact (vicki@downtownmuncie.org). Food vendors contact (cheryl@downtownmuncie.org). Art vendors contact Moth Danner (mmissmoth@gmail.com) to register. More details at: downtownmuncie.org/fireup.