Though summer may be coming to an end, 4th Friday is in full swing. This family-friendly event puts all that downtown Fayetteville has to offer on display. There is a huge variety of entertainment, culture and shopping; resulting in something for everyone to enjoy on Aug. 22.

The Arts Council has brought incredible exhibits to the downtown area for decades. It provides a space for local artists to display their talents and ideas. This 4th Friday, the Arts Council has two events scheduled. Inside the building is a new exhibit on display titled Mediating Relevance: The Politics of Gender. This exhibit is designed to “investigate and question society’s position or perception on gender roles and otherness.” Outside the building, The Army Ground Forces Band Freedom’s Groove will perform. Both events begin at 7 p.m. and last until 9 p.m. The Arts Council is located at 301 Hay St. For more information visit http://www.theartscouncil.com/fourthmain.php.

Headquarters Library will offer a fun and educational event for all ages. The Cape Fear Mineral and Gem Society will put on a demonstration in the Pate Room from 7 to 8:45 p.m. They will have fossils, minerals and gems of all kinds to show and discuss. There is a demonstration about how to make cabochon gems on a polishing wheel. These gems are shaped polished as opposed to the typical style of faceting. Softer stones are generally used in this process. Refreshments are provided and handmade jewelry and stones are available for purchase. Headquarters Library is located at 300 Maiden Lane. For more information, call 424-4756 or visit http://host7.evanced.info/cumberland/evanced/eventcalendar.asp?ln=ALL.

This month, Fascinate-U will have an activity for parents as well as children. From 7 to 9 p.m. there is a certified car seat technician giving a free workshop on how to properly install a child’s car seat, and the importance of proper car seat safety. For children there is a free craft available. This month it is creating a “funky” self-portrait collage out of food. Admission is free for the evening and the interactive museum is open late. Fascinate-U is located at 116 Green St. For more information, call 829-9171 or visit http://www.fascinate-u.com/contact.php.

Hay Street United Methodist Church is participating in the fun this month by providing live music. From 6 to 7 p.m. the band Double Trouble will perform, with The Ash Breeze performing until 8 p.m. There is also a free fish craft for kids from 6 to 8 p.m. The church is located at 320 Hay St. For more information, visit http://www.theartscouncil.com/fourthmain.php.

There is also live music during the evening at the Market Square Coffee House. The music begins at 7 p.m. and will feature local talent. The coffee house is located at 106 Hay St. City Center Gallery and Books located at 112 Hay St. will also provide local entertainment from 6p.m. until 8 p.m.

Find out more about 4th Friday at www.theartscouncil.com.