Billings’ Alive After 5 event has drawn an impressive crowd of about 5,000 people during its first two events of 2024. The Thursday night gathering is not just a social and musical affair but also has economic implications for businesses such as Thirsty Street Brewing Company, the Arterial Drive band, and the Downtown Billings Association.
For Thirsty Street Brewing Company, hosting the event for the second year in a row provides a significant draw for the entire town of Billings. Co-owner Shea Dawson mentioned that while hosting the event costs $5,000, the revenue generated makes it worthwhile. The event benefits nearby businesses by contributing to the local economy. Although exact dollar amounts weren’t specified, it is clear that Alive After 5 is a profitable and enjoyable event for many stakeholders.
Arterial Drive, a local band, performed at Alive After 5 for the first time in five years and received a warm reception from the crowd. Encouraged by their success, Drew McDowell expressed gratitude for the opportunity to perform and thanked his audience for their support. In addition to providing income opportunities for performers like Arterial Drive, Alive After 5 supports community initiatives such as sidewalk maintenance, public art, and free festivals organized by the Downtown Billings Association.
Overall, Alive After 5 serves as a marketing platform for businesses, a revenue source for performers like Arterial Drive
