There May Be No 2013 FNO, But There Will Be Back Bay Night Out

Racked is no longer publishing. Thank you to everyone who read our work over the years. The archives will remain available here; for new stories, head over to Vox.com, where our staff is covering consumer culture for The Goods by Vox. You can also see what we’re up to by signing up here.

Where Fashion's Night Out had become a gigantic headache to New York, causing its cancellation for this September, it was just catching on in smaller cities like Boston. Mayor Menino had shut down Newbury Street for the first time in fifteen years, the Thursday night event was deemed "official" by the CFDA and Vogue, and it coincided with Boston's fashion week tent. Months ago we wondered if local players might rally for a similar cause this year, and a collaboration between Boston magazine and Back Bay Association confirms that yes, there will be Back Bay Night Out.

Fitting under the umbrella of Back Bay on Display, an event series throughout fall and winter, over 40 businesses will band together on Thursday, September 12, to lure shoppers into the neighborhood. A press release quotes Mayor Menino stating:

"This year, more than ever, it's so important that we get out and support our Back Bay businesses. This neighborhood has shown tremendous resilience and strength, and I know that this holiday season it will be vibrant as ever with visitors,
shoppers and diners, alike, flocking to the heart of our City."

No word yet on exact promotions or which particular businesses are involved, but Marimekko and Cynthia Rowley are included in the group. What do you think of the concept? Does it detract from the cause that it's not exclusive to retail? Is it distinguished enough from other neighborhood initiatives? Will you be going? Sound off in the comments.
· Fashion's Night Out Is Canceled; How Will This Affect Boston? [Racked Boston]