BRADENTON - The city of Bradenton is trying to give the local economy a boost.

The Downtown Development Authority (DDA) started two events this weekend to try to bring in some much needed business.

At the B'Towne Coffee Company in downtown Bradenton, owner Mike Gold is getting ready to wake up a little earlier on Saturday mornings.

"That's definitely a good thing.  There's no complaint there."

The DDA is re-launching the Farmer's Market on Old Main Street as part of a new events initiative.

Mike Kennedy, Executive Director of Bradenton DDA, stated, "Downtown Bradenton, like almost every community in the country, is suffering from some of the effects of the global economy.  We're certainly not immune to that.  Real estate development has really slowed down, so we're concentrating on things like events."

Kennedy says they're also launching weekly concerts.  Every Friday, residents can bring their lunch to downtown and enjoy free music in front of the historic courthouse.

"We want to improve the city's economy.  We want to support downtown businesses by bringing them new and potential customers."

A proposition Gold and his staff like to hear.  Gold is giving them extra hours thanks to the events.

"I think it will make a difference to any business that's downtown.  I think it will help people living on the boats down at the marina.  I think it's going to be just a great atmosphere to attract families for social gatherings."

Gold also hopes it will attract people looking for a fresh cup of coffee.

The free concerts in the Courthouse Square will take place every Friday from 11am to 1pm and there will be different music each week.

And the Farmer's Market will be located on Old Main Street every Saturday from 9am to 1pm.