Did you know GVLtoday is one of 410 hyperlocal newsletters? Not to flex, but we were the first — founded and headquartered right here in Greenville.
We collaborate with Newsletter Editors across the country, and sometimes we see cool things happening in their city and think, “What if that was in Greenville?” One of those things is social districts. If you’re new to the term, social districts allow you to carry open alcoholic beverages (from permitted businesses) within a designated boundary.
Where it’s working
We asked our colleagues across the country how their cities are sipping and strolling:
- ATXtoday | Living Streets temporarily closes blocks to traffic so neighborhoods can throw walkable block parties.
- TBAYtoday | Buy a drink in a branded cup from a participating bar along the Riverwalk and take it for a scenic stroll.
- NOOGAtoday | Visitors can roam with drinks in hand on Station Street, hopping between restaurants, bars, and dance clubs.
- AVLtoday | City officials are exploring a social district that would activate during events like street fairs and art walks.
While you can sip and stroll during festivals like Artisphere and Fall for Greenville + weekly events like Downtown Alive and Main Street Fridays, what if we saw this in action in other pockets of our city and got businesses involved with serving the alcohol?
Imagine wandering through The Village during First Fridays or shopping in the West End with a beer from Gather in hand. Could it work on Main Street in Fountain Inn? Or Camperdown?
Supporters say social districts boost small businesses, encourage walkability, and build community energy at events. On the flip side, concerns around litter, noise, and enforcement mean these districts need clear boundaries, signage, and thoughtful planning.
What about you? Are you for or against seeing more spaces like these in Greenville? Take our poll and share your comments below.
