Phill’s Blues Band brings First Friday inside the PG Meetinghouse.

Phill Benson, owner of Phill’s Barber Shop, and his band were playing downtown while Al & Friends volunteers continued a familiar First Friday tradition outside: complimentary popcorn.

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Phill’s Blues Band performing under colorful lights inside the PG Meetinghouse
Phill’s Blues Band performs inside the PG Meetinghouse during First Friday on Aug. 7, 2026. Reader-submitted photograph.

An onsite MyPG.news reader reported that Phill’s Blues Band was performing at the PG Meetinghouse shortly after 8:15 p.m. Friday. The name is supported by prior public posts from First Friday Pacific Grove, which consistently identify Benson’s group as Phill’s Blues Band.

The Pacific Grove Chamber lists Phill Benson as the primary contact for Phill’s Barber Shop at 610 Lighthouse Avenue. A local profile traces Benson’s work at the historic shop, which became Phill’s Barber Shop after he took over the location.

Outside the Meetinghouse, photographs show the Al & Friends popcorn cart. The nonprofit says its mission is providing hot, nutritious meals to vulnerable community members. Edible Monterey Bay previously reported that Al & Friends volunteers provide complimentary popcorn at the Meetinghouse during First Fridays.

First Friday at the Meetinghouse

Al and Friends popcorn cart outside the PG Meetinghouse at Lighthouse Avenue and 6th Street
The Al & Friends popcorn cart outside the Meetinghouse at Lighthouse Avenue and 6th Street. Reader-submitted photograph.
Al and Friends nonprofit sticker showing alandfriends.org
Al & Friends supports vulnerable residents through community meals and local outreach. Reader-submitted photograph.
Chalkboard sign outside the PG Meetinghouse reading You Otter Grab a Drink
The PG Meetinghouse welcomed First Friday visitors downtown. Reader-submitted photograph.

Sources and further reading

First Friday Pacific GrovePublic organizer post identifying Phill’s Blues Band ↗Pacific Grove ChamberPhill’s Barber Shop listing and Phill Benson contact ↗Monterey County Weekly archiveProfile of Phill Benson and the barber shop ↗Edible Monterey BayFirst Friday popcorn tradition at the Meetinghouse ↗Al & FriendsOfficial mission and community-meal information ↗