MURFREESBORO, TN – Get ready to kick off the fall season in style this Friday, September 13th, with the Downtown After 5 event! From 5 to 8 PM, visitors are invited to explore the historic downtown district, filled with unique boutiques, art galleries, and a variety of local restaurants. Whether you're looking to shop, dine, or simply soak up the vibrant atmosphere, there’s something for everyone in Murfreesboro’s charming downtown.
Christmas shopping in September? Absolutely! Many locals start their holiday shopping early to ease the burden on their wallets. With a wide variety of retailers and local art by area artists, Downtown After 5, organized by Main Street Murfreesboro, makes gift hunting more enjoyable than ever.
The beautiful pre-Civil War-era Rutherford County Courthouse, built in 1859, provides a picturesque backdrop for Friday night’s event. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1973, this Classical Revival structure is one of six remaining antebellum courthouses in Tennessee. During the Civil War, it was occupied by both Confederate and Union forces, and its distinctive clock tower narrowly escaped destruction during a 1913 tornado. The courthouse’s history also includes its role in WWII as a military training site and air raid alarm center.
For decades, local timekeepers, James Hershel Mullins and later his son Charlie, helped to maintain the courthouse clock. Their dedication became part of the courthouse’s rich history. The Mullins owned and operated Mullins Jewelry Store, which was a long-time staple on the downtown square. Mullins Jewelry was known for their wide selection of clocks, watches and jewelry. Interestingly, Monday (September 16th) marks the fourth anniversary of Charlie’s passing, adding a sentimental touch to the courthouse’s clock and its continued presence in the community.
While strolling around the square, you might hear whispers of secret tunnels, rumored to have been built by Murfreesboro’s forefathers. These supposed passageways and escape routes have long been part of local lore, though no significant underground structures have ever been discovered. Perhaps they remain hidden behind a basement wall or were sealed off years ago. Who knows? The mystery adds an extra layer of intrigue to your evening!
With stores staying open late, you’ll have plenty of time to explore locally-owned favorites like Bella’s Boutique, The Very Idea, and The Write Impression. Pop-up vendors at Boro Collective and Michael Busey’s State Farm add even more to the shopping scene. It’s the perfect opportunity to find one-of-a-kind gifts while supporting small businesses.
When hunger strikes, downtown Murfreesboro offers endless options. Savor a gourmet burger at Jack Brown’s Beer & Burger Joint or enjoy Italian classics at Marina’s on the Square. If you’re in the mood for something lighter, Simply Pure Sweets has delicious bites, and O’Flow is the spot for a craft cocktail. You’ll never have to ask, “Where should we eat?” again!
To round out your night, don’t miss the Boro Art Crawl, happening alongside Downtown After 5. Local artists will be showcasing their work, and if you're an artist yourself, there's still time to sign up. This event is the perfect chance to support Murfreesboro's growing art scene and discover new talent.
Learn more about Downtown After 5 HERE.
