SNOHOMISH — Over the last 20 years, the Historic Downtown Snohomish Association (HDSA) has dedicated itself to hosting an assortment of community events while ensuring that downtown businesses thrive. Operating on a volunteer basis, the nonprofit is responsible for events such as Snohomish Pride, a celebration of LGBTQ+ culture that includes a parade, and the Avenue C Mural, a rotating, democratically selected art piece that colors the heart of downtown Snohomish.
On Jan. 21, HDSA Board President Ken Coman spoke at the City Council meeting to discuss the future of downtown festivities.
After gathering data from 2024, the board has a clearer picture of what the future of events could look like. Many events that come through downtown, like the Kla Ha Ya Days Parade and the Snohomish Block Party, involve closing off the area’s main drag, First Street, and impact the shops along that strip. As owner of Top-It Frozen Yogurt, Coman has felt the effects of street closures firsthand.
“The challenge comes when First Street is seen only as an event venue rather than the vibrant business district it is,” Coman said. “Our goal is to strike a balance — allowing events to thrive while also supporting the businesses that keep downtown lively year-round.” For 2025, he envisions cultivating a separate community gathering space, all while First Street is left open for business.
Coman illuminated positive trends amongst downtown businesses, showing data that merchants felt safe and profits were up. HDSA said revenues for downtown businesses during the Snohomish Classic Car and Hot Rod Display and the Sky Valley Motorcycle Show were down slightly. HDSA said self-reported data from 24% of downtown businesses showed that the Snohomish classic car show, in particular, saw a 1% decline.
The motorcycle show will be in Granite Falls this year, its organizers Sky Valley ABATE say on their website.
Travis Broyles, owner of Unknown Tattoo Co. on First Street, found business to be positively impacted during events whether or not they closed off First Street and even saw success during less popular events. “Last year we had a booth at the motorcycle show,” said Broyles. “We were able to gain a lot of business from that and it was nice to chat with the community and really connect with people.”
With businesses and events that appeal to a variety of audiences, the HDSA believes they can collaborate with organizers to create an arrangement that allows merchants to operate successfully amidst all events without having to sacrifice certain festivities.
“We strive to build strong partnerships with event planners to ensure their success while also benefiting our downtown businesses,” said HDSA Executive Director Maygen Hetherington. “Some events have had negative impacts on the district, but our goal is to collaborate on solutions — such as alternative locations — that create a win-win for everyone.”
In the new year, the HDSA hopes to focus on enhancing the quality of its existing events and continue to advocate for local businesses.
This story is updated from the print version.
